Elephants are known to be very intelligent and beautiful animals that can represent many things. Growing up in my Puerto Rican culture I have always associated statues of elephants to bring good luck. I have seen statues in various sizes, as small as a quarter and as big as a toddler.  The last time I visited my grandmothers house, I counted about six different elephants statues in different rooms of her house. I asked “ Grandma how come you have so many elephants in the house?” She replied “ Melissa, having an elephant in your house will bring you good luck in your home and your life”. Due to both my grandmothers being obsessed with collecting elephants, the fascination has passed down to me.  Depending on the culture, the statue of an elephant can signify different superstitions. Superstitions means an event occurring to due to a previous event occurring supernaturally. I have heard that in Columbia, it is a tradition to have three elephants in a room in order to represent good luck: one you bought, one that was given to you and one that you stole. The statues can be made of all types of materials such as glass, ceramic or even wood.  In conclusion, elephants have always reminded me of my hispanic heritage. I like the feeling of walking into an apartment or a salon and noticing a statue of an elephant. Not only does it remind me of my grandparents but it also gives me a sense of being welcomed with open arms.

– Melissa Rivera

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