We are told that when we turn 15 it’s a monumental moment. Almost as important as getting married or having children. Young girls finally turn into women.
It’s a part of our culture. A tradition passed down through every generation. No girl goes without a quinceañera. I remember when I was turning 15 I begged against having one. The idea of a big puffy dress and crown made me want to vomit. Whenever my birthday was brought up I tried to change the subject. I wasn’t looking forward to the day because I knew that if I didn’t do something big a lot of people would be disappointed in me. But I was never given the chance to decide.
Next thing I knew I was in a dress store trying on my eventual dress. I wasn’t able to say no. I almost felt tricked into the whole thing. Everyone around me was setting everything up and I just floated along with no chance to have my voice be heard. My mother knew I didn’t want a party but she made sure that I had one anyways. My dress, crown, ring, and shoes were all chosen without my consent. I just went where I was told. The day of my party was nice and I do remember most of it. I just wish I had been able to say I was there of my own volition.
A quinceañera is a right of passage for a Hispanic girl. I get the sentiment behind the entire day. I just wish the day came organically instead of being expected of us. You turn 15 and the family assumes a party comes with the day. If you don’t do anything then you are looked down upon.
Yet my little cousin turned 15 this weekend and I realized how special the day actually can be. Even though I see the day differently from when I turned 15 she was able to enjoy it. The night was something she will carry with her for the rest of her life. She smiled the whole night through. Hopefully the memories she holds on to stay pure and sweet even if her opinion of the tradition changes in the future.
