Kimberly Tsai Cawkwell

Where I’m From

I am from my people who advocated for liberalization,

from ginger spiced noodles passed down from ah-ma and

from the endless meyer lemon tree.

I am from a Cajun Taiwanese, karaoke dancing family of four,

and late nights with mahjong and hot jasmine tea.

 

I am from a home built by the love of my husband,

the polished copper kettle found in the rummage of an old antique shop, 

I’m from Sunday morning snuggles and endless blankets for thirty toes,

from a stroll by the beach to refresh and bring breath to my day.

 

I am from the words of Emerson, Rilke, Muhammad, and others

who center love in their work

From cultivating, creating, building, and learning 

From the words of my mother, “No matter what, they will always see your Asian face.”

 

I am from the dreams of advocating for a place

where my daughters have power and voice to follow their heart and speak their truths

where the beauty of their heritage and identities are honored and valued

and where my heart can rest knowing I have done all I can to contribute to those dreams.

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My name is Kimberly Tsai Cawkwell and I am a Mother, a Wife, a Daughter, a Friend, a Learner and an Educator. My drive is to inspire others, lift up unheard voices, and cultivate a world that nurtures love and joy for all humanity.