Unified Diversity!

This, to me, is what it means to be a Puerto Rican. :) Enjoy! 9/20/10.

I am "unified diversity."
I am the exotic combination
Of three distinct groups which all
Blend into one melting pot of spices and excitement.

I feel the spirit of the African slaves
As I sway and dance to the beat of the drums.
My bomba skirt flows and flies
With each quick movement of my hands.

I feel the spirit of the Spaniard conquistadors
As I speak their language of love and passion.
The rolling rr's and sensual s's
Bring heat and flavor to my words.

I feel the spirit of the Taino indians
As I ponder their oppression in their native land.
Full of never-ceasing strength and resilience
They have kept their pride and traditions.

Three unique cultures join
To form a special mix of people.
Understanding and embracing this and more
Is what makes me a Puerto Rican.

Reviews

[Clockwork]

It is a great gift to be able to recognize who you are and where you came from. I think that knowledge provides some comfort as we grow older. We can have a point to trace from, a place among people like us to call home. That is important on days when the world grows restless.

[Dakota]

You should always be proud of who you are and what makes you who you are, so often people for get that. I love the imagery in your piece. Beautifully written.

[Huggy Bear]

Beautifully Written:)

[Tate Morgan]

To feel empathy is a great gift

[Dream Weaver]

Hermoso y emocionante....muy apasionado.....

[Coyote Poetry]

You have great heritage. I saw many people with similar heritage in my travel on the coastline of Central and South American. They were proud and beautiful people. Each part of you have story to be told. I like this poem. The world is multi-culture and we can't get along still. A mystery to me? A very strong poem. Thank you.
Coyote

[Zeitgeist Manifesto]

Its nice to know who you are and where you come from.
Having pride in your past makes goals easier to reach in
the future because of the accomplishments that exist.