Identity

“Home is variable and may be place of birth, place of residence or may be defined by the popular notion 'where the heart is'.” - Peter Roberts

My grandfather was a Spanish man who moved to Puerto Rico when he was a young fellow; he married my Puerto Rican grandmother and created a family here. Almost religiously at least once a year we fly to Spain to be with our family, thus we’ve always managed to conserve both cultures. Sometimes among us we speak in Spanish accent, we eat Spanish food as well as well as Puerto Rican food; it’s fair to say that we’ve managed to form a hybrid between both cultures.

Nevertheless, my heart is in Puerto Rico, I’ve lived here my whole life, and even though it needs a bit of amendment I love this land, it has forged me to become what I am today. It may be true that we have a noticeable criminality rate, some somewhat lousy politicians and administrators in our government, that we’re the only colony in the modern day, and that we have a huge cultural influence (especially through superstores) from the United States of America; but I believe in our capacity and potential to bring about good and prosperous results.

As a tourist I’d be delighted to be here, to enjoy from our sunny beaches, to marvel over our delicious food. This is a beautiful island, it has warm-hearted citizens and a friendly atmosphere, but as any civilized place on earth not everything is a utopia. Nevertheless, we have good libraries, good hospitals, good entertainment; you come visit us, and if you’re up for it you’ll have a great time.

Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, some might visit Puerto Rico and love it, while oppositely others might visit and absolutely hate it. You’ll never know if you never try. Personally, even though it gets pretty hot almost always, if you’re willing to be a positive influence I’d suggest anyone to come in as a tourist or as a permanent resident, either way, you’ll find the love in life, ‘cause life’s better the Puerto Rican way. :)