My grandma, one of my best friends, is a constant source of inspiration in my life. Raising five children as a young law student, she learned to be the most organized and deliberate person I know. Born in Finland, my grandparents often go back to visit. After their return from a trip to Finland one Christmas, they brought back gifts for all of us. I, along with the other girls in the family, received heart necklaces. I love that when I’m wearing my necklace, I can think of my family members across the globe wearing them too. I reminisce on my favorite Finnish traditions, including past celebrations of Juhannus, trips to my grandparents' house to go to Avanto during winter break, and waking up to the sweet smell of my grandma making pulla on a cold December day.I not only think of my living female family members when I wear my necklace, but also the legacy of my ancestors. I am reminded of the strength of my great-grandmother, Anna-Liisa, a single mother of four children. It is hard for me to comprehend how much courage it must have taken for her to allow her youngest son, my grandfather, to immigrate to the United States from Finland on his own. When I wear my necklace, I am reminded that it is not just traditions and places that make up my identity, but also people. My heart is filled with love and awe when I put on my bronze heart necklace.

– AR

Relationship:  Grandchild of im/migrant Grandchild of im/migrant