Some of the most important life lessons were taught to me in different languages. Seriously.

My maternal grandmother is from Cuba, my maternal grandfather was a Greek born in Turkey, and my paternal grandmother is from Germany. 

Some of the lessons they taught me were serious, many were hysterical, and others were heartbreaking. I hold each one close to my heart, and have used them as guideposts for the decisions I make in life. 

Their lives were so different from the life I've had so far, but by coming to America they paved the way for their children and grandchildren to live amazing lives. 

But they were adamant on "teaching" us what was important. And by teaching, I mean telling. 

1. Language is a beautiful thing. So learn how to speak more than just your native language. My first language was Spanish (which was quickly replaced by English when I went to preschool). Being able to understand another language is something for which I will always be grateful.

2. Remember that things are just things. What's important is family, friends, and health. Material possessions can be lost just as quickly as they were gained.

3. Don't be the person you hate at Costco. Don't be picky, don't be pushy, and don't be nosy (at least not in public). Seriously. 

4. Always remember your heritage, and don't forget where you came from; but be willing to assimilate to where you are. And learn the language.

5. There's no such thing as a "free ride." You should want to work hard, and you should be willing to work hard. Nothing is owed to you. Life in America is a privilege; don't waste it.

6. Don't be a picky eater. Not trying a new type of food was never an option. We always had to at least try whatever was made for us, and funnily enough we usually loved whatever was put on our plates... except for that one time my Papou tried to make my sister and I eat cow brains. That didn't go over well.

7. Sometimes life is hard. It will push you down, spin you around, and leave you feeling helpless. Your job is to get back up, and put the pieces back together.

8. Las telenovelas are actually amazing. They're hysterical and corny, but addictive. Never interrupt your abuela when she's watching her novela. 

9. The only acceptable way to greet your family and friends is with a peck on the cheek. Even if you've only met them once before (or never).

10. There is nothing better than six hour long dinners that involve more talking (and oftentimes yelling) than actual eating.

11. Politics, religion, and current events are blacklisted topics of discussion for the aforementioned family dinners. Which means they will be brought up, so either be educated on these topics or keep your mouth shut.

12. Being a vegetarian is not an option. Do you remember My Big Fat Greek Wedding? There's one scene where Toula's Aunt Voula says, "What do you mean he don't eat no meat?... Oh, that's okay. I make lamb." Well this conversation happened countless times with my Greek grandfather.

13. Along those lines, ouzo and windex are apparently the everyday fix for anything and everything. Yes, My Big Fat Greek Wedding was somewhat accurate. 

14. There's nothing unmasculine about a grown man giving his father a hug and kiss and saying, "I love you, Papi."

15. Education is a necessity, it's a privilege not a right. So go to school, so you can get a reliable job.