Personal Narrative: My Hispanic Family

Growing up in a community that is mostly Hispanic creates a type of shield, not allowing for different cultures or ethnicity to diversify the community. A Hispanic family living in such an isolated community takes a toll on the way we view the world. This environment has indulged my curiosity. Being the second youngest sibling of my family of seven has allowed me to learn from my older brothers, and have the privilege to be a leader to my little brother and serve as a role model to him. Though none of my family members went to college, and my parent’s highest education being a high school diploma, it hasn’t discouraged me to follow their footsteps, but rather give the encouragement to dedicate myself to be the first generation and in my whole
It was difficult because I never had a dad to talk to or give me advice about school, or even teach me to do anything as a father should to his son. Luckily my mother met my stepdad. My step-dad accepted and raised me as if I were his own son. As I was younger, I never understood why my step-dad would always force me to wash my own clothes, clean up after myself after eating, and to learn how to cook so I wouldn’t have to depend on my mom or anybody to provide for me in things that can be learned and done by an eight year old. As I grew older, I realized that everything he taught me was for a purpose. That purpose was to get me ready for life, and to be able to live on my own without anybody’s help. Though my step-dad has taught me skills on how to live on my own, he also taught me characteristics of being responsible, determined, hard-working, organized, understanding, and honest with myself. My step-dad raised my family in a strict environment, in turn, it taught me how to be self-disciplined. My step-dad always preached to never be a follower and to always be a leader, and I’ve shown these characteristics through all the times I’ve succeeded with my family in school, football, and