I would describe myself as somewhat of an ethnic mutt. Most people would be appalled to hear me refer to myself as a "mutt" -- that word is normally attributed to mixed dogs -- but I don't see it as a bad thing.

My whole life has been this one, big, cultural gumbo pot. My family has done a really good job of making sure that I have had experiences with, and appreciation for, all the heritages that run through my blood.

They've also made me realize how true it is that the only race is the human race, and within this great big world are many different people, skin colors, ethnicities, and cultures--but none is greater than the other.

I mean how ridiculous would it be for me to think that the German blood that runs through my veins is somehow better than the Irish blood, or the Native American blood, or the African American blood, or the Greek blood? They all equally make-up me as a person. So why would I think that about other people?

We all are mixed in some shape or form, some people just show it a little more than others. I think that it's really important to remember this, especially in times of great strife and hurting around the world.

I wouldn't change my upbringing or my ethnic gumbo pot for anything. And I hope that more people will come to see the importance of embracing all peoples no matter how "different" they may seem. Who knows, maybe your great-great-great-great grandmother was something you would never have expected!