My object is called a Janamaz. Janamaz is a muslim word for a prayer mat. My mom had brought it with her while she emigrated out of her country, Pakistan. This object has many unique features and numerous intricate designs. There are flowers on it as well as an image of the mosque (kaaba). The janamaz has the following colors: red, yellow and black. The mat also shows people facing the kaaba and praying towards it. To make it even more beautiful, the mat has a finished trimming all around the border of soft silk material. From my mother’s perspective, there are many reasons why this object was brought here and why it was special to her. For example,The prayer mat gave her HOPE! It showed her that wherever she was, God was with her. She had and she will always have these strong beliefs to help her face challenges with great determination and hope in America. In addition, the prayer mat holds a lot of memories of her family especially of her mother (my grandmother). Her mother passed away. But, she is thankful for the memories her mother gave her. She remembers all of her family praying she was taught; she is able to recall all the wonderful places she used to visited in Pakistan and is speaks of the wonderful, relaxing time she had talking and walking with her mother. Most importantly, the mat has been in the family for over 21 years.

– Aleha Syed

Relationship:  Child of im/migrant Child of im/migrant