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Different Traditions in Hispanic Culture

12/15/2021

 
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Our hispanic culture has many different traditions, more than you could possibly think of. I love being a part of this phenomenal culture. I feel compassionate about my traditions. Being able to speak two languages fluently is something I enormously enjoy. Having the opportunity to take classes during high school is incredible. Let me educate you about some of my favorite traditions.

Let's first start with Día de los muertos (Day of the Dead). It is a tradition where you honor the dead, which takes place on the 1st and 2nd of November. The first day is to mainly celebrate the little ones who have passed away. The second day is to celebrate the adults. We make altars for our loved ones and add some of their favorite foods and drinks. It warms my heart that we have a special day to celebrate our close family members who have passed away. 

On May 5th we celebrate Cinco de Mayo which is when the Mexican army took a victory over France in the Battle of Puebla during the Mexican War. This will include some traditions that will occur on that day such as parades, parties, music, and traditional foods like tacos. 

When girls turn 15, they have a special party called a Quinceanera. It’s when you start to turn into a young woman and your childhood is gone. It is a religious and social event. The celebration will first begin with a mass that family and godparents will attend. The mass is followed by a party. This will include food, music, and dancing. The girl will then have heels placed on her feet to show that she is now entering womanhood and her childhood has come to an end. It's a sad fact that I didn't get to experience having a 15th with my big dress due to COVID.

January 6th is more important than Christmas for us. This is Dia de los Reyes Magos (Three Kings Day). It represents Three Wise Men; Balthazar, Melchor, and Gaspar who gave gifts to Jesus Christ. This day also closes the Christmas festivities. During this day, Mexicans will serve Rosca de Reyes (King’s Cake). “Rosca” means wreath and “reyes” means kings. The Rosca is oval shaped and symbolizes a crown and has small little dolls inside which represent Jesus Christ. The dolls inside indicate the hiding of the infant Jesus. They are adorned with dried fruit that shows the jewels that a crown can have. So then the person who gets the slice with the doll will have to do a chore. Fun fact, I have only gotten the doll once.

All of these traditions make me feel delighted. I love seeing so many other people participate in them as well. Experiencing diversity in the world and being able to see other people celebrate other cultures, makes life even more enjoyable.

Until next time,
Lizbeth

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Mental Health is a Vital Part of Your Life

10/6/2021

 
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Being in the midst of a pandemic, many individuals' mental health has been affected, but what exactly is mental health? It is the well being of a person who understands his or her own situation, coping with stresses of life, working productively, and having the power to contribute to your community. When things are not going well, poor mental health can make a person miserable and cause many problems in daily life, like at school or work.

Taking care of your mental health is something very important in life. Everyone should be aware of it at all times. Our mental health affects us in many ways such as how we think, feel, and act. 

​If you are ever having a bad day because of something causing you to not feel well, it's best to not do it. Adding to your stress levels is not a good idea. For instance, if you are having mental health issues before work, let someone know. If possible, take a day off. It will definitely be best for you. 

There are many different types of warning signs of poor mental health, such as eating too much or too little, having low energy, feeling hopeless, and the inability to perform daily tasks. But there are also positive signs corresponding to stress of life, working effectively, and making contributions to the community. 

If you are struggling with your mental health, but finding ways to cope, give yourself a pat on the back! Be proud and give yourself credit in how far you have come. You are very strong and everything will get better. Make your mental health a priority. Healing will take time, but it is worth it. Believe in yourself!

You got this!
-Lizbeth :)




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    Lizbeth 

    Sophomore.      
    I want to travel the
     whole world at some point.      
    Love hanging out with
     family and friends.
    ​My passion is being at the beach.

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