At the age of 13, I received one of the few items I own reminiscent of my family's culture. During a visit from my aunt at Christmastime, she gifted my sister and me matching bracelets from Jamaica. The bracelets are made of indigenous Job's tears seeds—a tear-like marble seed—and adorned with a customizable pendant: my sister received a pink star, and I had a blue butterfly, my favorite insect. The bracelets were handmade by a local grassroots organization of artisans, some of which had physical disabilities. My aunt explained that the bracelet symbolizes strength, hope, and faith. Its purpose is to guide and protect its wearer, especially during life's challenges. Although I may feel distant from my culture at times, this bracelet is not only a piece that keeps me connected but also serves as a reminder of the value of perseverance and uplifting those around you.

– AO

Relationship:  Child of im/migrant Child of im/migrant