I’m from Dakar, Thiebou dieune and Yassa au poulet
I am from Manhattan, loud, crowded, always moving fast.
I am from Moussa, Birame and Mamour
I am from tabaski and kirite,
From sacrifice, hunger, excitement, and gratitude.
I am from family meetings, loud laughter, tights hugs, sad goodbyes.
I am from lasagna and and chicken over rice
I am from sabare, fast, uncontrolled, an important part of my culture.
I am from d ne pas parler fore, or lower your voice
I am from de partager avec les personne pauvre, or share with those who have less than you.
I am from a future where I am a doctor.
Dear: Madjiguene
I am surprised by your poem, “Sacrifice, Hunger, Excitement, and Gratitude,” because we have stuff in common. Some of this things are our hobbies, values and goals. We have some stuff that is different.
One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: “from Sacrifice, Hunger , Excitement, and Gratitude.” I think this is interesting because it speaks of sacrifice, hunger, emotion and gratitude, and these words let me understand that she had to go through several difficult stages to achieve what she want. There is a moment of improvement with the word of gratitude. I think that those sacrifices made her stronger and for those things she is grateful.
Another phrase that I like is “I am from a future where I am a doctor”. That stood out for me because it speaks of her being sure of herself what she is going to do in her future.
Your poem reminds me of something that happened to me. One time when I had to say goodbye to my family in the Dominican Republic to immigrate here in the United States.
Thanks for your writing.
I look forward to seeing what you write next, because your poem is interesting and also has a little connection with myself.
Dear Madjiguene:
I am in love with your poem, “Sacrifice, Hunger, Excitement, and Gratitude” because it shows the great things in Senegal. but also it describes how you love your country and culture.
One sentence you wrote that stands out for me is: “I am from family meetings, loud laughter, tights hugs, sad goodbyes.” I think this is important because you are demonstrating how excited and united people are in Senegal.
Your poem reminds me of something i experienced. I am from Senegal too. and while reading your poem, I keep remembering those delicious meal my Grandmother or I used to cook, the whole family reunited around a bowl of thiebou djeun or yassa, talking about our day. All the family meetings where we shared happiness and joy.
Thanks for your writing.
I look forward to seeing what you write next, because your thoughts are well expressed through your writing.