My mom joined the navy before my siblings and I were born. She worked for 21 years before she retired. When she became a chief, she was given a ceremonial cutlass as a reward for her hard work and dedication. This sword was displayed in her office on the military base and polished by underlings who were hoping for a promotion.
The sword itself is nothing special. Just a dull blade with a brass handle and a simple sheath. But it’s important to her. Her time in the military took up a large part of her life. Though she was never particularly happy while working there, it was a career that continues to help her provide for her family and pursue her interests. The sword is a reminder of that. She passed it down to me a couple of years ago. When I see it, I remember the times I visited her at work, the months she spent on deployment, and the times we had to leave friends behind and move to another state. It’s important to me too, because of the memories it holds for both of us.

– HR

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