Salvador Magana

I am from soil

from the essence of garlic and bread.

I am from the soil in my backyard that grows my resilience and corn.

(Green, glowing, what I’ll use to make tamales).

I am from the agave

Versatile, emerald with spiny margined leaves, long with my pride and culture

I am from carne asadas and agua frescas

from Mama Chuy to Papa Antonio

from being el pollito and the adventurous spirit

I’m from the Easter Sundays and May God

be with you.

I’m from both the Garlic City and Jalisco

Tamales, Tacos

From the plazita and the spice from el chile de habanero.

On the most preserved shelf in my parents room

Holds the memories of treasured days,

Showing the smiles, frowns, and mischiefs

That whispers the adventures of my childhood.

I am from Emilia and Salvador -my parent’s teachings

Strong, patient, and proud of my roots

Like the strong heart of an agave plant.

I am from soil,

from corn and peppers.

I am from the soil that grows my corn and peppers in my backyard

(brave, bright, and fresh).

I am from nature

that gives life to the soil that grows the fruits and vegetables.

I am from roots and patience

I am from Emilia and Salvador

I am from the caring and loving soil

from the same soil my father works on and cares for

from the Easter Sundays to May God

be with you and the Hail Mary’s.

I am from Gilroy the City of Garlic,

another vegetable that grows from the soil.

From the roots that grow all life,

We are big and strong like a family tree.

The same caring and loving family that gives life to my culture and roots.

On the most preserved shelf in my parents room

Holds the memories of our treasured days,

Showing the smiles, frowns, and mischiefs

That whispers all of my adventures.

Strong, patient, and proud of my roots

Like the strong heart of an agave plant.

I am Salvador Magaña.