Cyndi Bates
I was born in a big white hospital. My mother was born in America, and so was my
father. Both of my grandparents were born on American soil. I wore disposable
diapers until I was toilet trained. I learned to speak English from my parents. My dad
grew up in a home owned by his parents. His family had several different cars
throughout his life. My grandparents paid taxes on the money my grandpa made.
My mother grew up in a house her parents owned. She rode her bike on the street
in front of the house when she was little. My parents took me camping with my older
sister. My dad was in the Army. My parents paid taxes to the government. My mom
stayed at home and kept house. My parents bought a house. I went to school up the
hill from my house. My mom taught me to read and write my name. I made forts in my
back yard. I got a hammer and nails for my birthday. I played G.I. Joes with the
boy next door. I wore baseball caps. On Sundays I went to church with my family.
That was the day I wore a dress. I went to high-school near down town. I saw kids
fight. I got a job. I paid taxes. I moved away from my mom and dad. I rented a home
with my sister. Then I got married. Now I live in the city. My husband and I live in a
tiny apartment. We will buy a house. I wear jeans to work. We pay taxes. We speak
English.
I am an American!
This is my culture.