Around the world Louisiana is known for many different things: hurricanes, parishes instead of capitals, alligators in back yards, and the list goes on. But to me, Louisiana is home.
You might only know us for what you see on Cajun Pawn Stars, Duck Dynasty, and Swamp People, but anyone from Louisiana knows that there is so much more to it than what you get from TV, what you see in the news, or even what you read in this article.
Louisiana is one of the most unique and indescribable states that America has to offer, and growing up here molded me into who I am today.
Why growing up in Louisiana made me a better person.
Being brought up in Louisiana, as you can imagine, is a little different than anywhere else. It teaches you things that you can only learn here.
Louisiana made me worldlier, more adventurous, and more appreciative of the nature and wildlife that surrounds us. I learned not to be afraid of what’s out there, but to embrace it. I am a girl who will proudly shoot a gun, clean a fish, or hop on a four wheeler and get a little muddy from time to time. Louisiana lets you experience things that you wouldn’t be able to experience anywhere else, and I’m not talking alligators in our yards. Contrary to what you might think, Louisiana is not just a boot-shaped state full of swamp. There are so many hidden beauties in Louisiana that people from out of state would not expect to see.
Another gain from growing up in Louisiana is the ability to withstand crazy weather changes. I’ve learned to be prepared for just about anything because Mother Nature sure does like to throw us curveballs. Thunderstorms, to blistering sun, to frost on the ground? Nothing we haven’t seen before!
It might get pretty hot here, but that doesn’t stop us from enjoying outdoors. Oh, its 102 degrees? Grab a snocone, you’ll be fine.
I also have a lifelong thankfulness for sunscreen and bug spray. Mosquitos don’t play down here but I know how to avoid them at all costs.
If Louisiana has taught me anything, it’s cooking and a love for food. Louisiana hands-down has the best food around, and we can promise you that there is nothing else like it. Cajun cuisine is something that cannot be replicated, and no other food is comparable.
Living here also means the ability to pronounce things that look nothing like they sound. For example, Andouille, Natchitoches, Thibodeaux, Hebert, Ouachita, Pontchartrain, and if you’re from here, you know the list goes on. The best thing is having teachers from out of state try to call the roll, and having to stop because they can’t pronounce anyone’s last name ... Ain’t nothing like some Cajun families, sha!
Festivals, festivals, and more festivals ... where hearts of all Louisianans lie. Louisiana has a festival for just about anything.We can turn any tradition into a great big celebration, and oh boy, do we know how to celebrate. Festivals taught me how to have a good time while learning about and supporting my state's industries and traditions. Great food, great music, great times. Like we always say, “Laissez les bons temps roulez.”
Louisiana made me a better sports fan. With our exceptional tailgating and our awesome team spirit, Louisiana just does it better. Geaux team!
One of the most important things Louisiana has given me is manners and respect. I use "yes, ma’am", "no sir", "please", and "thank you" without even thinking about it, and I’m proud of it! Being Louisiana-raised has also not only taught me to respect my elders but to respect everyone. Louisianans are a perfect representation of southern hospitality.
Last but not least, Louisiana made me a better Christian. The amount of religious and godly people that you’re surrounded by here is amazing. From losing a loved one, or going to a job interview, there are always prayers pouring out to you from everyone in your community. Growing up and witnessing the power of prayer our community demonstrates is sure to restore faith. It is truly a blessing to live here.
