Love your Latin neighbor.

What does it mean to be Latin? As I sit here trying to answer this question, I find myself questioning every answer I give, mostly because the term “Latin” refers to such a broad group of people. Latin is anyone who lives in a “Latinized” culture and speaks a romance language. Certainly it would be impossible to claim to know or fully understand such a broad group. So, for the sake of this writing, I will point out the differences and similarities growing up Latin.

I guess I can start by pointing out the obvious; we are a bit tanner, most of us have darker hair, we enjoy spicier foods, we speak very loudly and with passion, we speak Spanish or Portuguese, we have different customs and cultures and we grew up looking at the stars in a different part of the world. It is difficult to remember a time when I could see us as a family struggling to make ends meet. I think back on how difficult it was for me trying to fit in and make new friends when I had torn shoes and a thick accent. As an adult and part of a community, that one might call affluent, I see now that most of us have had the same struggles that all humans have regardless of color, race or religious affiliation; to feel accepted and secure. In the end I think we all want to be loved and respected for our individuality. Although we share more similarities than differences, each one of us is unique.

I think Jesus said it best so, I am going to leave you with his words. ”You shall love your neighbor as yourself, there is no other commandment greater than these.” (Mark 12:31)

Dear God, Teach us to see past our differences. Let us embrace those we do not understand. Open our hearts and mind’s to lead with love. Help us be the change we want in the world. Let us stand united as unique individuals. Amen.