My Grandmother immigrated to New York from Guyana in 1987. She was alone in a new country while the rest of her family was still living in Guyana. This necklace was one of the few pieces of jewelry that she came to America with. The pendant is an OM symbol that is common in the Hindu religion. My grandma is a very religious person. Religion kept her motivated to build a better life for herself and her family. When life became hectic, she always found time to pray even if she could not attend the local Hindu church, known as a Mandir, as often as she liked. She even transformed her closet into an Alter when she became very sick and was not physically able to leave her home. Religion brought her comfort during this huge transition in her life. Immigrating to New York and leaving her children behind was very hard for her but her hopes never faltered. My grandmother gave me this necklace on my 18th birthday. She wanted me to have something of hers to remind me that I always have God in my life. She looked up to God for help when she needed strength and wanted me to know that I can always do the same.

– Devina S

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