As a native Guyanese, an American Citizen, and a Jew by religion first and culture second, I juggle several primary identities. Perhaps the most accurate and succinct description of myself would be an American Caribbean Jew. Thus, to reflect my multi-dimensional identity, I have hanging in my room four 3’ by 5’ flags: A Guyanese flag, an American flag, an Israeli flag, and a British flag. Why a British flag you ask? Since Guyana was a British colony until the 1960s, I grew up with a heavy British influence, both culturally and educationally. Therefore, Britain has earned a spot on my wall to supplement my connection to Guyana. The arrangement of the flags also holds special significance. The American and British flags sandwich the Israeli flag to depict the close relationship these nations have as political allies, and also as signifier that they all share a similar importance to my identity. The Guyanese flag, however, is draped across the ceiling tangentially to the wall the 3 other flags hang from, to show I relate the most and above all to my Guyanese heritage and nativity.
The rest of my room is very simple, which indicates my indifference to materiality. My bed lacks a frame, and is just two mattresses stacked one on top of the other. In addition, I have a dresser and a plastic cabinet for my files, papers, etc. Having moved over 20 times, I learned early on that material objects are transient, and thus are not necessary to achieve happiness. Sure, like most people I have clung onto a couple of childhood toys for nostalgias sake. However, since so many things get lost from move to move, I grew used to letting go of material pleasures. Thus, today I prefer to invest less time decorating my room, and more time building and growing the social relationships that are dear to me.
The rest of my room is very simple, which indicates my indifference to materiality. My bed lacks a frame, and is just two mattresses stacked one on top of the other. In addition, I have a dresser and a plastic cabinet for my files, papers, etc. Having moved over 20 times, I learned early on that material objects are transient, and thus are not necessary to achieve happiness. Sure, like most people I have clung onto a couple of childhood toys for nostalgias sake. However, since so many things get lost from move to move, I grew used to letting go of material pleasures. Thus, today I prefer to invest less time decorating my room, and more time building and growing the social relationships that are dear to me.
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