Before my grandfather died, he called me and gave me a necklace. It had a “D” on it, to represent his last name, Delgado. His house was in front of mine in Santa Rosa de Lima, in El Salvador. I saw him every day, and when his health got worse, I began to feel scared of losing him. 

Today, the necklace with the “D” on it is the only thing I have of him. I remember the day when he gave me the necklace very vividly. He spoke with my father first, and then my father said, “Kilver your grandfather needs you. Go see what he wants.” I ran to his house. He said, “Kilver, I have something for you. This necklace is mine, and I am giving it to you so that you have a memory of me. Don’t lose it. Keep it with you.” My emotions were mixed. I was happy because I got a gift from my grandpa. But at the same time, it was strange because his words felt like a goodbye. 

My grandpa died in October of 2014. I was terrified and shocked when my dad gave me the news. I stayed silent.

In 2016 my family and I decided to come to America due to the problems that gangs were causing in El Salvador. I wanted to take my necklace with me, but my parents recommended that I leave it with my aunt because it was very dangerous to bring it with me. When we finally got to the United States after about 20 days of traveling, I asked my mom to talk with my aunt, because I wanted my necklace. My aunt sent the necklace to me, and when I received it, I was so happy, because I was able to keep the promise of always having the necklace with me. Now, I keep it in my room, and I am lucky to have this reminder of my grandfather. 

– KB

Relationship:  Im/migrant Im/migrant