Traditionally, the Latin grandfather was a figure of quiet respect. The jefe de la familia . The stern face at the head of the table who gave you a firm handshake and a five-dollar bill for your birthday. Silence was golden. Repression was a virtue.
His lack of shame is a lesson in radical authenticity. abuelo sin verguenza
There is a particular species of elder in the Latinx community. You know him immediately. Traditionally, the Latin grandfather was a figure of
His sin vergüenza is the liberation of a lifetime of responsibility. He spent 40 years working a job he didn't love to feed kids who now roll their eyes at him. He spent 50 years married, learning when to speak and when to keep quiet. Now? The cage door is open. Silence was golden
So the next time your grandfather tells an inappropriate joke at dinner, or flirts with the nurse, or wears that ridiculous hat in public, don't shush him.
October 26, 2023 Category: Family, Culture, Humor
Laugh with him. Pull up a chair. Ask him to tell that story about the goat and the police officer one more time.
