Land of the Free, Home of the Brave.

In the past few months, I've had my nationality questioned more than once. I've openly stated that I was born in Cuba and consider myself to be Cuban. But I also believe myself an American. Sure, I wasn't born here, I don't even have citizenship here, but this country is as much mine as it is yours.
Something that annoys me is knowing people who live in this country, make use of its benefits, and constantly criticize the way it is ran. If you have an issue with the democracy of the country, then deal with it or move out, but don't go around bragging about it. I'm not writing for or against any government. I'm writing in the hope for decency.
I once met an immigrant who lives in the United States, yet constantly criticized American traditions and beliefs. I find that astounding- how a person can be so hypocritical that such a situation comes up. If you love your country so much, then go live there. Yet they stay here soaking up the red, white and blue.
Another predicament came up with a peculiar individual who criticizes each and every word that comes out of this government through a social medium. I'm all for freedom of expression, but I've always heard that there are three things that shouldn't be touched upon in public: religion, sex and politics. Unfortunately, this individual wasn't raised in the same household I was.

What is the point of my incessant ranting? You don't have to be born in a country to love it, and you don't have to analyze every bit of the government with your private opinions to prove your love. I was born in Cuba, and I may or may not agree on half of the things this government concludes on. But I am an American.

Because Life Doesn't Stop Moving

Things I've learned in the past year:

1.  Yoga really works. Due to school and work I've been really stressed. I started practicing yoga once a week and I felt a weight lifted off my shoulder every time the session was through. Stretching out my muscles and relaxing in a silent room was....refreshing. Learning to breathe in whenever I felt a tug or pull on my muscle taught me to relax and breathe in when faced with a tough time. The next time you feel stressed or like you just can't take it anymore...breathe in and relax. 
2. Confidence is beauty. There is nothing more beautiful than a woman who knows how to stand tall and believe in herself. A woman who knows where she stands and has plans for herself is one who deserves respect from others. Women have come a long way throughout history and now is not the time to back down. We must accept who we are with a smile on our face and the attitude to guide us through tomorrow. 
3. Everyone deserves a second chance. Life gives you second chances quite often and it is very important that you take advantage of them. I met someone who misused his first opportunity. As expected, he was granted a second chance, and is now making the most out of his time. You can do the same. Remember, no one's ever heard of a third chance. 
4. Life keeps moving. This earth moves daily, and you are one small person. It won't wait for you to be ready, you must adapt yourself to it.  In the blink of an eye we go from being innocent children to mature adults who must accept their wrongdoings. We must learn to be courageous and brave, forget about the past and the ideas that did us wrong. Move on, after all, life doesn't stop, why should you?