I Remember

Linda Leedy Schneider

I am from apple orchards,
hollyhock dolls, and stolen peonies.
I am from seeds gathered in muslin,
monarch butterflies, and buzzing bees.
I am from poodle skirts, going steady,
a stolen kiss at the drive-in movie.
I am from, “Don’t be too booky.
No man will want you.”
and "Brush your wild hair for church."
I am from solitary confinement at the table,
refused food in front of me.
I am from the scent of lilacs
and the sound of jazz
stolen from an open window.
I remember
the secret star in every apple.
I remember the kiss
and the apple trees.