I’m from bus stop beat downs and backyard basketball

I’m from Mary J Blige and Michael Jackson

I’m from hoodrats chrome domes and straight up hoodlums

From hosewater to illegal chinese fireworks

Where bloodlines are muddled and everyone knows someone

From late night strolls to the gas station to picnics at the park people watching

From where jumping fences were your transportation and the streetlights were your curfew

I’m from crossing the street without looking and the buzz of porch lights to noisy nights police sirens driving by

Where treehouse restaurants and boulevard restops fueled our fun.