1. It's okay if you don't speak Spanish
Your name sounds like something out of a T.V. show where you're the token Hispanic. You're the Ricky Ricardo of your life, trying to make it in a world of Lucys, Ethels and Freds. Everyone assumes that since your name has an accent mark, then you'll know what the lyrics to Bailando. In reality, it took you almost 2 whole minutes to remember bailando meant dancing. Google translator will always be there for you and me.
2. You're not expected to know everything about your heritage.
Just because, you're half Columbian, 75% Mexican, or even 100% Venezuelan does not mean you need to know everything about that country. Come on guys, I barely know all 10 of the amendments to the U.S. Constitution, don't expect me to sing Cuba's national anthem for you. Learn about your heritage if you want to but don’t feel forced.
3. You may not like the food.
Generally, Hispanic, Latino or Caribbean food is well received. It's usually sweet, salty, or fatty, the food trifecta, and if you get it local, then odds are its pretty dang fresh. So most likely, there's some of the food that you enjoy and look forward to, it may even remind you of home, but gosh dang it if I want french fries instead of maduros as my side, then I will get them. The first person who criticizes my decision is getting a french fry up the nose. Order the fries if you want maduros, whatever floats your boat.
4. Maybe you didn’t get the dancing genes.
Everyone's out and Shakira comes on. Girl or guy, people look at you. "Come on, those hips don’t lie!" No, really they do. Bodacious as they may seem, they grew up on Kenny Chesney and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Please, stop singing into a fake mic while you look at me. No, don’t point at me either. Please lower your finger Dave, you're embarrassing me. I dance when I want and only then. Give that a shake.
5. You still love that you're Hispanic.
Despite what people may think, you've got tons of pride in your background. It doesn't matter where on the Hispanic spectrum you fall, you'll always find comfort in your roots. Choose to celebrate who you are however you want, and never be worried about what other people may define you as. Remember to love yourself— the Hispanic side and the not-so-Hispanic side too.
