More than a Marianas

In the Pacific Ocean, lies a group of neighboring islands called the Marianas. Among the 14 islands, one of them is my home: the beautiful island of Tinian. The home of luscious beaches, where your toes dig into the sand, your ears are treated to the wonderful sounds of waves crashing, and your soul is immersed in the scorching, humid air. As I step onto the soft sands of Tachogña Beach, I hear the ocean air whisper the stories of many generations before.

There, I see my Chamorro heritage which I ground myself in. I see the gift of traditions and values woven into the very foundation of who I am. And, I see this lovely picture where the beach has turned into my home away from home. Every day, I find myself reinforcing my Chamorro heritage by using the knowledge carried down through generations. Much like the sweet nectar of the island’s flowers, I absorb the essence of my Chamorro culture and seek ways to gain more knowledge of my heritage. For instance, one practice that plays an important role in my Chamorro identity is the principle of inafa’maolek, or reciprocity. From the small homes to the large gatherings, the spirit of helping and giving back flows like an ancient stream. To me, it’s more than a gesture; it’s a way of existence, shaping not just my heritage but also the vibrant community on Tinian, where a timeless community blooms.

Here on my island home, neighbors are more than just passing acquaintances; they are family, bonded through island living. In the peaceful afternoons, we drive down narrow roads in our cars, exchanging waves similar to those seen on a Saturday afternoon. We admire the flavor of home-cooked meals flowing through open windows, calling us to enjoy the benefit of family kitchens nearby. During the fiestas, many traditional dishes are displayed, which brings neighbors and friends together to celebrate. And, in the corner of little grocery stores, advice, laughter, and news are shared amongst the people, strengthening the bonds in the community.

Writing this fills me with an eternal appreciation for being able to grow up on the islands, where community relationships are built into the foundation of daily life. The Marianas represent the sense of relationships more than anywhere else, where traditions run deep into every family, connecting us to our roots and one another.

Within this community, ingrained in my culture are the values of helping and giving back.

In my family, whether it’s lending a hand to decorate at an event or borrowing items one might need, these actions aren’t just simple gestures but deep connections within our family. They’re ways of saying, “I got you, and I am here for you.” In those moments, we’re not just relatives; we’re a tightly-knit clan, bound by shared experiences and unwavering support. The sense of unity from islands across the seas is uplifting, and I saw this firsthand as my family navigated through the difficulties of our baby angel battling brain cancer. What we thought was just a passing flu or sickness quickly turned into a chronic struggle that changed our perception of time and the precious moments we shared. In just a year, our lives were forever changed.

During this difficult time, the spirit of inafa’maolek came through. Our family and community united around us, showing firm love and support. As we gathered around the dining table, the mood was full of sorrow and hope. Each meal symbolized not only nutrition but also our community’s strength and perseverance. The clinking of silverware blended with meaningful chats and occasional giggles, creating a balance of support that rang through our home’s walls. Amidst fear and anxiety, we found solace in the embrace of our family and neighbors. I still remember the times that had a lot of impacts, such as meaningful messages and visits from family near and far, meals made by aunties that nourished our minds and hearts, and prayers and well-wishes wrapped around us like a warm blanket. In these acts of goodwill, we sensed the genuine spirit of inafa’maolek, as each act of giving sent rays of perseverance through our hearts.

My niece’s journey demonstrated the strength of love and unity, bringing our family closer together. The struggles I encountered with my family have left a lasting impression, like footprints printed on the sand. Those struggles taught me the importance of keeping our beloved traditions and practices, as they serve as the ties that connect us all as one whole. Every part of our cultural history still influences my values and actions to this day. It reminds me that our customs are more than simply historical treasures; they are ongoing legacies that help us navigate through modern life with resilience, unity, and unwavering strength. Even with everything changing so fast around us, the heart and spirit of inafa’maolek remain steadfast because of how it is preserved.

Our culture centers around narratives, which connect us throughout history. I think about my grandkids, and their children’s children, who will grow up to tell stories about how inafa’maolek has been our family’s guideline. I distinctly remember sitting on the edge of my grandma’s bed, with the glow of the T.V. casting a shadow over her face, watching her paint pictures with words from past generations and their beliefs. Her tales taught lessons about goodwill, resiliency, and what it means to be a Chamorro. As a kid, I didn’t take much thought into it, but now I think about the legacy I wish to leave. A legacy of carrying on the gift of our cultural heritage, wrapped in the warmth of storytelling.

I will correct myself in saying that the Marianas are neighboring islands in the vast Pacific Ocean because it’s more than that. It’s an expansive ocean packed with familia. We are descendants of the Chamorro and Carolinian ancestors who navigated the waters and lands long ago, and their wisdom flows through our veins like the currents that caress our shores. When I say it is, “More than a Marianas.” I’m not referring to the geography of the islands but the connection to our heritage, our community, and the stories that keep us together, binding us as one familia, now and for the generations to come.

This essay written by Stephanie Diaz won third place in the NMI Humanities Council’s recent Marianas Writing Contest.

NMHC