The object I chose is the Catholic Bible. Growing up, I often saw this important object in my home, even if it wasn’t always being read. Seeing it unopened but still respected made me want to understand it more. Even though I don’t have my own Bible yet, I plan on getting one because I want that personal connection for myself.My family is religious, but not in the strict way people often imagine. We aren’t forced to go to church constantly or pressured into believing. We believe because we want to, and that made me want to build my own relationship with God instead of just following rules. Listening to my grandma and other family members talk about God made it feel natural — like something that’s always there, not something scary or forced.When life gets stressful, I don’t see praying as something I only do when I’m afraid. I feel like I have an emotional relationship with God, and I believe that everything God does is meant to make me stronger.For me, art is another way of praying. Painting, planning, and creating help me slow down and think, and it feels similar to how I talk to God and how the Bible is used — as a way to reflect and give yourself a little therapy.During Catholic seasons like February through April, my family practices fasting, just like the Bible teaches. My grandma makes sure we remember not to eat meat, and it teaches me discipline and helps me understand God more deeply.The Catholic Bible represents my faith, my family, and my personal growth. It shows that my belief isn’t forced, but chosen. It connects me to where I come from and who I’m becoming.

– HJ

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