I am many shades of colors: Olive, white, peach, espresso. I came from faraway lands, across the oceans, Traveling in ships, chained or free. I have lived here for thousands of years; My people came across the Bering Strait before settling... In my flesh, I am stained with flags from many countries. My blood has been poured, and my blood has been cleansed. Who am I, you ask? I am… America’s firstborn, A blend of Spanish, African, French, English, Italian… I am Caribbean.

You are a product of all who came before you. On Grandparents Day, I reflect on the lives of my ancestors and the unseen influence they have had on my own life.