Preserving My Family Culture.

Reading the requirements and scenario for this posting was unfortunately for me frightening.  However, in our trying times in the world we live in, I must admit I, as well as my family, have thought about such a scenario and how we would handle it.

The three items I would take with me to my new country would be small yet powerful.  Small is good, it is easier to carry and travel with in such an emergency situation.  I have two heirloom rings that are from my grandmothers on both sides of my family, each have been handed down to me because I am the oldest female on both sides of my family.  They are not priceless, they are not expensive....but, they are my family.  These rings are a representation of two powerful, strong and amazing women.  They are a reminder to keep up the strength in my family.

The third item I would bring would be the one and only family photo that I have of our small family that is current.  We are not a family that takes annual, professional photographs.  It is rare for us to have a group photo of the four of us together.  So, this photo is very valuable to me and I would bring it with me to my new country.

I would explain to others that these items represent a small unity amongst a small yet proud, strong determined people.  And, that that determination is who we are as a family and is who I am and represent in a new life.  They represent perseverance and strength that we will bring to our new homes.

If, due to the circumstances of the situation, I had to relinquish any of the items I would be saddened, I would be heart broken but, I would be understanding and I would NOT be devastated.  They are after all items but the real power of these items is held in my heart, in my soul and in the very make-up of who I am.  I do not need items to know, portray or be who I am.  Currently, two of these items are safely locked up and I never see them except on rare occasions.  I do not need to see them everyday to feel what they mean to me.  The lose of an item is not the lose of myself and I would remember that always!

My family is silently strong, loving, determined, full of powerful, amazing people!  We will persevere with or without items and even with or without each other.  We are Sawyers, we persevere and we are always in each others hearts.  We are survivors!