In life, unfortunately being surrounded by hate and criticism of many seems like something common -sometimes. Some will appreciate who you are and others will find ways to tear you apart in things you have no control over such as heritage and ancestry. I'm mestiza(Native/Hispanic &European) 🥀 I imagine probably a majority of everyone is a "mutt"/cultural mix as well? Tragically racism is a thing and so is colorism. I'll admit, I lightened my skin and stayed out of the sun. My skin was always complemented with remarks such as (guerra) aka Blondie... I'm not blonde but I guess I was white passing when I traveled to Mexico. Growing up, it seemed as if relatives never were proud of the native blood we all carried. Whilst growing up in the US it was surprising to be witness to the vast melting pot of cultures. Unfortunately, I was also witness to racism. Speaking Spanish wasn't a plus around non-speakers. I lived a double life in that way to avoid hate. Was I weak? Maybe, I genuinely was just tired of the nonesense and hate. It's ridiculous , how the world has so much diversity yet it finds ways to attack aspects that make it unique. Now, I'm grown and proud. I need to further know more about my heritage. Thanks to DNA testing I can appreciate it in a deeper sense. Otomi, Spanish, Portuguese, Irish and French are parts of who I am. 🍷Here is to hoping for a better word with less hate and discrimination.