Joy is in the shared breath of the past

I finished my final exams today. My first semester at a new college has brought a feeling of deep gratitude to those who chose to provide a way and to my Chahta ancestors who lived through deeper challenges that I can only imagine. They're strength and bravery made my life possible, and everything I do is because of the choices they made, the steps they kept taking. I am humbled by their sacrifices and feel more joyful thinking of them. I believe we live for our ancestors as much as for ourselves. My great grandfather's piercing eyes, my mother's empathy and my grandmother's love of cooking were shared with me, and I feel joy in the life they provide me. My thoughts go to building on connections and peaceful conversations to create a common language so that we can speak to one another with respect. That is the legacy I was given to continue.