Identity

Jessica Smith
English 1100
August 31, 2015
Prof. Young

What Does Identity Mean to Me?

       A person's identity makes up who they are, how they act and how people perceive them. When people ask what the word "identity"means to me, I always take a minute or two to actually think about that it means to me. Anyone can say how their language, clothes or household traditions are all a part of what makes up their identity. However, to me, identity is how you were raised and who you were raised by. With that being said, my family is my identity due to the fact, I would not be the person I am today without them. Personally, I think identity is what makes you-you, which I know my family helped me develop what makes me-me. Starting from the way I speak/act, how I handle situations, to the little things like my sense of humor. Everything that makes up that characteristics I carry, I feel as though my family has influenced in a positive way. 

     

To begin, my mom and dad are my biggest supporters in everything I do. They are a huge part of my identity because without them, I would not be the girl I am today. They taught me wrong from right, how to treat others, and basically everything I need to know in order to survive. 

My little sister, Jamie, is also a big part of my identity. She helps me shape the person I am as well as my parents. For example, I act a certain way to set a good example for her to follow. She helps me to choose the better choices in life, most of the time, because I know I'm laying out footsteps for her to follow. 

Overall, to me, your identity stems from your family, or your "roots." Everyone is raised differently, in different homes all over the world. Not one person is the same due to their family or how they were raised. My identity means so much to me thanks to my strong, supportive, and beautiful family who have helped create the person I am today. My family makes me - me.