Ode to St. Croix

You give me something to be proud of.

When people ask me where I’m from, I reply, “St. Croix. The US Virgin Islands.”

Yes.

I was born in New York and moved when I was eleven, but St. Croix raised me. Groomed me into the woman that I am today. How so? I experienced the simplest things in life. The toughest. The most trivial. My formative years were spent in St. Croix. I learned what I wanted to do in St. Croix. I understood the meaning of family in St. Croix. I got the best life lessons in St. Croix.

The salty breeze and teal waters held me when I most needed it.

The mango, birds, trees, and hibiscus flowers reassured me that everything would be ok.

Thomas Bakery held it down when I needed a little nourishment.. butter bread and bush tea. (sipping and munching away as we speak.) Armstrong’s Homemade Ice Cream. Brow Soda. Island Dairies. (RIP)

Juanita Gardine Elementary reassured me that it was ok to be new. This is where you have to show them the real you. You may feel the pressure to assimilate and get people to like you, but you must let them know, hey, this is my home too. Elena Christian Junior High tried you but you made it out. They thought they could bully you out the school. But, her halls and classrooms protected you. I’ll prepare you for the depths of high school. Let’s not talk about Central High. I learned the most about myself, about friends, about family, about the importance of gaining my footing in life. Central tried you but you made it through.

I sit typing this on a chair of bamboo, with the smell of saltwater and sand infiltrating my nostrils. It’s hot but there’s a breeze. I am smiling at the thought of the dips in the backroads.

The journey down the highway of Queen Mary.

The Christiansted Bypass illuminating the nook and crannies of Town.

The beauty of Point Udall.

Every house I’ve called home.

Richmond. Barren Spot. Orange Grove.

I thought my true sanctuary was New York, but it’s always been you.

You give me such comfort and glee.

You give me something to be proud of. A flag I’m proud to wear on my back. A culture deeply rooted within.

You made me, Me.

Til the sugar apple, coconut drop, and USVI flag flies,

Ella.