I'm not sure how apparent this is in my blog, but if you know me, you know that I love Latin culture. Everything about it, the people, the music, the food, the values, the art, the dance. Many people probably think I am crazy or weird maybe because I love it so much and it is not my own. I myself often wonder where this passion came from. I have no Latin blood, no close family that I know of that has been to Latin America for more than a short trip, no connections really whatsoever. But somewhere along my life experiences, I had a feeling that I would like to go to Latin America. When I started Spanish classes in junior high, I loved it. I went to Spain to get closer to the language, but I didn't feel it, there was no connection. I still looked towards the south and searched for a way to buy a ticket to that unknown place that I felt would suit me.
Then I decided to go to Ecuador on a brief piece of advice from a friend. I had never thought of it before but what the hell? It ended up to be a three-week long life-changing experience that confirmed my belief that Latin America was in my heart and when I left, part of my heart stayed there.
Another trip, this time to Cuba for three months, and I knew that I would never be able to get it out of my system. I have never felt so happy or alive in a place. Everyday was exciting, everyday I was happy to wake up, no matter how tired I was. Every person I met treated me like a friend, and friends were like family. The music has so much feeling, the dance is lively, and the air hums with passion, love, struggle, and memories.
No matter where I am, my mind and heart are in Latin America. I try to immerse myself in it no matter where I am. I listen to the music, cook the food, dance the dance, and try to feel the warmth and liveliness wherever I go.
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