Buenos Dias – Let’s Celebrate Cinco de Mayo

I’m not a survivor. Survivor comes from saying you barely made it and you’re a victim. I am triumphant. I’m not a survivor. Carlos Santana, musician

Originally, Cinco de Mayo was an annual celebration to commemorate the Mexican Army’s victory over the French Empire on May 5, 1862. Unfortunately, the victory was short lived. Today Cinco de Mayo is more popularly celebrated in the United States than Mexico. The date has become associated with the celebration of Mexican-American culture.

Celebrations began in California, where they have been observed annually since 1863. The day gained nationwide popularity in the 1980s thanks especially to advertising campaigns by beer and wine companies. Today, Cinco de Mayo generates beer sales on par with the Super Bowl. I’ll have an tamale and a Corona, please.

Affirmation: I’m enriched by the diversity of cultures.

Coaching question: What’s your favorite Mexican food? How has your life been enriched by the inclusion of a variety of cultures?