(This is a picture taken by Charlene Collins  of Jamaica, St Elizabeth Black River)

Looking at this landscape of Black River Jamaica, all I can think about is my culture and heritage. A sublime aspect would be emotions and advanced thinking on what’s before you in nature.  My river runs deep like the body of water that flows through my country and endless thoughts of progress cross my mind. This picture is inspiring to understanding my evolution of who I am, where I would like to go with my life. I was born in Brooklyn New York City. Both of my parents are of West Indian, Jamaican descent. My Grandparents migrated to NYC in the 1900 for a better living and a taste of the American dream.

This picture of my origin allows me to strive for more knowing that I’m capable of many great things. In the past, it was hard for black people to own houses or businesses,  however my grandparents managed to buy a house in 1969 and establish businesses such as a church, dry cleaners & tailor shop while working . I must say, my Grandparents did very well. That’s what I call an accomplishment, coming from a country with a few opportunities. They made my family’s future brighter working hard and overcoming diversity as Caribbean immigrants they were never held back. Growing up here was hard but exciting, they say “A tree grows in Brooklyn,” this city taught me a lot. Brooklyn New York is where my story begins, and just like the  Black River it doesn’t end here. When you step into the river, you never step in the same water twice. The river is constantly moving and the mind is always looking for understanding, we will never be the same do to progress. How deep does your river run ?