My Family Background
September is Hispanic Heritage Month. I am of Hispanic heritage and a native speaker of Spanish because my parents taught me Spanish. My maternal grandparents lived next door and spoke in Spanish to me, although Grandpa sometimes spoke a few words in English. After he died, my maternal grandma said, “Speak only in Spanish to me. You will speak English in school.”
Mama loved and taught Hispanic dances to bilingual teachers in our community. They taught English to native speakers of Spanish and celebrated their Hispanic heritage. My mother took me with her, and the music along with the native dresses for each dance fascinated me. I would hum with the music and practice the steps in my mind. Alone in my bedroom, I would practice. If I made a mistake, no problem. No one saw me.
I remember those wonderful family get-togethers with my maternal aunts, uncles, and cousins. My uncles would play their guitars or bongos and sing. I learned all the songs and sang along with them.
We also danced until our feet hurt and enjoyed a variety of Hispanic food. Those special times with family led me to become a Spanish teacher. I taught my students the language, songs and dances I loved. I miss my family but know I will see them again one day.
Options for Others
If you aren’t Hispanic but would enjoy the festivities during Hispanic Heritage Month, look online to see what your state has. If you live in Virginia, you can go to several Latino markets and grocery stores near Virginia Beach, Richmond, and Fairfax.
For those in California, the food trucks offer delicious, inexpensive food. In San Diego’s Old Town, you can watch them make tortillas and prepare fresh guacamole in the restaurants.
The Best Offer of All
Regardless of the month or where you live, the unequaled heritage available is that of children of God. “The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children then heirs–heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him” (Romans 8:16-17 ESV).
Internal Link
https://yvonneortega.com/jesus-wants-the-best-for-us/
External Link
http://pattysadallah.substack.com/p/when-the-way-rises-to-meet-you
Prayer
God, I want to be your heir and a fellow heir with Christ. I understand that means I will suffer with him in order that I may also be glorified with him. I surrender to your perfect will for me. Amen.
Next Step
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