The fifty cent coin has been a staple in both my mom and dad’s side of the family. Both families grew up in the Philippines, yet they both had different environments to work with. My dad’s side grew up inland in Bocaue Bulacan, where the environment was more polluted and in a town that was more poor. On the other hand, my mom’s side grew up in Olongapo, a beach city with a nicer view and better perspective of life. The 50 cent coin was used by both to put on the ledges of their windows, its symbolic meaning was to bring good luck and fortune to them. It was not until around 4th grade where I finally gave in and started grabbing them. My grandma stopped me and told me to put it back. I replied with "But it's money, why is it just here?" She then went on to explain that it wasn't just money, it was blessings . Apparently, the windows are opening to the home, the coins represent the good luck and fortune. Putting them there welcomes those blessings into the opening and those eventually come back around to us. I always thought this was interesting to me, as most of my family had followed it. Before I found out I always questioned why not just spend the money and use it instead of sitting there. However, I've come to realize this is just us embracing something we believe in, and a somewhat tradition that my family has probably followed ever since they came to America. While everyone does have their object, it is without a doubt the fifty cent coin has been with me ever since, and will always be something significant in my life.  

– Dylan Anes

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