Zarriah N. Smith

My Heritage-Inspired Goals

by Zarriah N. Smith

As I reflect on my legacy as an African American, I am deeply moved by the lives and histories of my ancestors, particularly those of my grandparents. Their lives and struggles are a constant reminder of the strength, resiliency, and determination that shaped me into the person I am today. Through their stories, I have come to understand the profound impact of history on personal identity and how their challenges continue to inspire me to reach my goals with determination and perseverance.

  One of the most moving stories is that of my grandfather's mother, a woman of immeasurable strength and independence. She raised 14 children single-handedly, backing them in the best possible way despite all obstacles in her path. Her simple determination towards her children, along with her ability to remain steadfast in the face of difficulties, left an indelible mark on my grandfather's life. He witnessed firsthand the sacrifices and difficulties she endured, and as a result, he grew into a responsible and hardworking individual, providing not only for his own family but also for his siblings.

  This legacy of selflessness and determination from my great-grandmother has been passed down through the generations. It is evident in my grandfather's  character, as he became the rock of strength and support for his family. His example of work ethic, commitment, and love has inspired me to be responsible for my own family and to always do my best to provide for them, no matter what challenges I may face.

  Equally influential in my life is the memory of my grandmother, not only a warm and nurturing person but also a woman of strong faith. Having experienced a traumatic childhood herself, she turned to her faith in God to guide her path in overcoming life's obstacles. She was a faithful servant to her family and church through a loving heart, and her faith was a pillar of strength that allowed her to rise above the adversity she experienced. Her legacy of devotion and resilience taught me the power of faith and how it can be a pillar of strength during times of adversity. Just as my grandmother relied on her faith to survive the challenges in her own life, I am encouraged to keep God in my thoughts and heart as I journey down my own path.

  The stories of my ancestors are not merely testaments to their strength and resilience—they are a reminder that in spite of racism, police brutality, and economic inequality, they persisted. These were not insignificant obstacles, but obstacles that were designed to break the spirits of previous generations. And yet, despite this, my ancestors grew stronger than ever, having cleared the path for subsequent generations to thrive. They demonstrated that regardless of how difficult life becomes, there is always a means to rise above, and it is this legacy that motivates me to succeed as well.

  My mother's accounts of my ancestors' lives have instilled in me a very deep sense of pride and duty. Their capacity to live despite everything has spurred me to set goals that would honor them. I wish to be strong, independent, and hardworking—like them. I want to provide for my family, not only financially but also emotionally and spiritually, just as my grandparents did for my mother and her siblings. I would also like to help others, just as my grandmother helped her church and community. And when things get rough in life, I will hold on to my faith and be determined to persevere because I know that my ancestors' strength is within me.

  In summary, as I reflect on my African American ancestry, I recognize that my ancestors' pains and triumphs have had an impact on my aspirations and values. Their resilience, faith, and commitment to family have encouraged me to pursue my own goals with purpose and determination. I carry their legacy with me, and their wish that I carry on the legacy they started—to be resilient, help others, and never yield, no matter what I face. Their legacy motivates me. In their tales, I am reminded that our legacy is not merely a reflection of the past but a roadmap for the future, offering guidance and nourishment to see us through life's adversity.