Written piece
My Inheritance
Sandra Shaw
Jamaica
About this piece
One thing I inherited from my family and culture is strength. I also inherited love, respect, faith, and the importance of working hard no matter the challenges in life. My family taught me to stay humble, care for others, and always believe in myself. I learn about unity,music.
One thing I inherited is strength — the kind that carries a family through hard times and still leaves room for love, laughter, creativity, and faith. I inherited resilience from the generations before me, people who worked hard, believed deeply, and continued moving forward no matter the struggles they faced. I also inherited creativity, storytelling, music, and the ability to connect with others through culture and expression.
The places that shape my line are rooted in Jamaica — its vibrant communities, rich traditions, natural beauty, and powerful history. The streets, the countryside, the churches, the music playing from speakers, the sound systems, the gatherings with family and friends, all become part of my memory and identity. Jamaica’s history of survival, resistance, freedom, and pride lives deeply within me and influences how I see myself and the world.
Language is another inheritance. The rhythm of Jamaican patois, mixed with standard English, carries emotion, humor, wisdom, and cultural pride. The sayings, proverbs, songs, and conversations passed down from elders are more than words — they are pieces of history and identity. Through language, stories and lessons continue from one generation to another.
The memories that shape my line are memories of family support, shared meals, celebrations, music, prayer, hard work, and overcoming difficulties together. They are memories of people encouraging each other, teaching respect, protecting one another, and finding joy even in difficult seasons. These experiences become part of who I am and remind me where I come from.
Altogether, my inheritance is not only material things, but values, culture, history, faith, music, language, and the enduring spirit of the people who came before me.