Mi Orgullo

I am often times found bragging about my heritage. I shout to the world and let them know that I am Puerto Rican and damn proud. When they ask me about Puerto Rico itself, I usually tell them about her gorgeous features and throw in "I love it" somewhere. Well, this summer, towards the end of my visit on the island, I saw my flag waving in the wind backed by a light hearted blue sky that (finally) showed no threat of rain. When this image entered my brain, it began to be processed. Wheels began to turn and the results were printed. Here's what was yielded: "What does 'I love it' mean?" What had I done?! I had completely neglected to put my passion behind my statement. The "love" nestled between the "I" and the "it" was hollow; its foundation was weak. I began to think, and through my shame I managed to realize that I can soundly say I love Puerto Rico. I am IN LOVE with this island. Creeped out, yet? Deal with it because it's true. Looking deeply into the blue triangle decorated with its white star and ribboned with red and white stripes, my heart pounded within my chest overwhelming me with a powerful, undeniable feeling: love. It is only fitting that this epiphany struck me nearly a month after my grandfather's death because I know that I am supposed to carry on the very same feeling that he felt for our land and it's people. Love Puerto Rico: It's what he taught me to do.

(Warning: to those of you who have made it t

his far, please be cautious for you are soon to be bogged down by monstrous amounts of the word "love".

I love the food. There are many ingredients that are used over and over, yet can create an extremely wide variety of dishes. Not to mention the fact that every single one of those dishes is absolutely delicious. Appetizers, main courses, desserts. You name it and it's beyond anything you can ever imagine. Even things like Church's, Starbuck's, and pizza ( specifically Faccio's Pizza, of course) taste better there.

I love the mountains, and the beauty that they hold within them. They are home to the beautiful El Yunque rainforest and other hidden treasures such as lakes, rivers, and beautiful homes. The cool mountain air, coupled with the vibrant colors and soothing sounds of native animals, is calming and the view is breathtaking.

I love San Juan and all of the history that it holds. It is here that many stories have been created and told. It is home to our Spanish roots, or history, and our legends. It is also home to Juan Ponce de Leon's tomb, a man that my grandfather and I took quite a liking to over the course of our time together. It is now his resting place as well. Oh, and I can't forget the piraguas...NEVER forget the piraguas...

I love the beaches. The hot white sand and the shimmering blue seas leading out to an endless ocean. They are adorned, of course, by palm trees swaying in the fresh, salty breeze. No matter what beach, no matter what part of the island, they are all a slice of paradise.

Finally, I love the people. I love the national pride. I love my family. We will always stand beside our flag, beside our fellow brother, beside our national teams, and most importantly beside our country. Viva Puerto Rico: truly, I love you.