I Am From

I am from a sunny valley

vibrant fruit markets, dusty roads and yellow grass

where Pachamama gives and takes

where majestic mountains envelop the home of my heart

where the fruits determine the season.

I am from a coastal village

with raging winds and furious rain

where mankind abides by nature’s rules

where shoulders relax by the sight of an endless sea

where I can tell the season just by smelling the air.

I am from the south and I am from the north

my “R” is rolling on the tip of my tongue and stuck in the back of my throat

my taste buds feast on Fårikål as well as Llajwa

I am from colors and rhythms

I am from candlelight and winter darkness

I am carnaval and I am 17.mai

I am a quiet storm shaped by these contradictions

breathing and dreaming in a handful of languages

with my roots planted in the eternal.

*Pachamama: Mother Earth

*Fårikål: the national dish of Norway; a mild mutton casserole dish with cabbage, potatoes and some black pepper .

*Llajwa: A spicy Bolivian salsa made of locoto chili pepper, tomatoes and onions.

*Carnaval: a cultural and religious festival which occurs immediately before Lent; usually takes place in February or March.

*17.mai: Norwegian national day; a children’s day.