My friends and I have different eyes, irises illuminating different shades of culture and experiences. Nicole’s eyes are waves, calmly crashing into the dock of Lake Gilbert. The sun sparkles off her eyes like the shimmering surface of the water. Alexis’ eyes are mud, like the dirt that batters dig their cleats into at the plate. Eye protectant and glasses shelter her eyes from the harsh world. My eyes are cucumbers, a combination of sage and seaweed. They are adventurous, ready to take the unbeaten path. Our eyes are from the earth, roots that lead us back to our past.