My object is a silver buddha necklace. It shows  my family’s identity because a lot of people always say that Buddha is the enlightened one or good luck. My parents came from Cambodia and my other family members were already in the United States. My dad came to the United States because of the war. While my mom came because her mom didn’t want to take care of her all the time.  It’s not unique but it’s still somehow important. I lived in Utica, New York for a while and then Lowell. My parents were kept going back and fourth though. Then my dad sold most of our jewelry so we didn’t have much left. When I was getting older, I would visit my dad’s side of the family and they would always complain. They always told me and my brother we weren’t wearing enough jewelry. It was hard to just take it in, and not say anything for a few years. But eventually, my mom found some jewelry that my dad didn’t take. It was only a few necklaces. My mom told us to wear it, with no hesitation. My brother was relieved that there was still something but I was still worried. After putting the necklace on, they told me I somehow looked like a girl, now. After that, I realized the differences of my mom and dad’s side of the family.  Other stories I heard are from my friends. Their family just looks down on them, in general. To me, it showed how harsh people can be in our culture.There’s no filter, it’s just reality and opinions.  Especially older people because they are never satisfied.Also my story can connect with other family stories because I’m sure everybody doesn’t have a perfect family. 

– SH

Relationship:  Im/migrant Im/migrant