Life Advice & Traditions That Keep Us Grounded
If there’s one thing that connects all of us in the Latin community, it’s the wisdom of our abuelitas. These incredible women are the keepers of tradition, the storytellers, and the ones who always seem to have the right advice at the right time—whether we asked for it or not.
From their kitchen remedies to their unwavering faith, the lessons our abuelitas passed down are more than just words; they are a guide to life, resilience, and love.
Let’s dive into the timeless wisdom our grandmothers have shared with us and how we can carry these traditions forward while making them our own.
1. “El respeto al derecho ajeno es la paz.” (Respect for others brings peace.)
Respect is everything in our culture—respect for elders, respect for nature, respect for ourselves. Our abuelitas taught us that true strength isn’t in how loud you are but in how kind and fair you can be.
How to Apply It Today:
- Honor your roots and family values while also setting healthy boundaries.
- Lead with kindness but don’t let people take advantage of your generosity.
2. “Sana, sana, colita de rana…” (Healing takes time.)
How many of us heard this little rhyme as kids whenever we scraped our knees? But beyond a childhood chant, the message is clear: healing—whether physical or emotional—takes time, patience, and love.
How to Apply It Today:
- Give yourself grace when recovering from setbacks, whether in love, career, or personal growth.
- Use holistic remedies, like herbal teas or mindfulness, to help balance your well-being.
3. “Dime con quién andas y te diré quién eres.” (Tell me who you hang out with, and I’ll tell you who you are.)
Our abuelitas always had their eyes on who we surrounded ourselves with because they knew that the people we spend time with shape our energy, mindset, and future.
How to Apply It Today:
- Surround yourself with people who inspire and uplift you, not drain you.
- Be intentional about the friendships and partnerships you invest in.
4. “La comida cura el alma.” (Food heals the soul.)
For our abuelitas, food was more than nourishment—it was love, tradition, and medicine. Whether it was a bowl of caldo on a cold night or a plate of tamales during the holidays, the meals they prepared carried history and meaning.
How to Apply It Today:
- Learn and pass down family recipes to keep traditions alive.
- Use cooking as a way to connect with your roots and loved ones.
5. “No dejes para mañana lo que puedes hacer hoy.” (Don’t leave for tomorrow what you can do today.)
Procrastination? Not in our abuelitas’ world. They knew that life waits for no one, and if you have a goal, a dream, or a responsibility, the best time to start is now.
How to Apply It Today:
- Take small steps toward your goals instead of waiting for the “perfect” moment.
- Honor the hustle, but also know when to rest (another lesson our abuelitas could’ve learned a little better!).
Carrying Their Wisdom Forward
Our abuelitas’ lessons weren’t just words; they were a way of life. They taught us how to be strong but soft, independent but connected, and always proud of where we come from.
As we move forward, we can honor their wisdom by:
✔️ Keeping our traditions alive while embracing our own paths.
✔️ Passing down their stories to future generations.
✔️ Living with the same love, resilience, and strength they showed us.
Because at the end of the day, we are the legacy of our abuelitas. 💛
