“Cinco de Mayo has come to represent a celebration of the contributions that Mexican Americans and all Hispanics have made to America.” Joe Baca
Happy Monday!
Welcome to May! I hope you enjoyed your weekend and had a chance to relax. Today is Cinco de Mayo, which means celebration here in SoCal. You may have done some early celebrating over the last couple of days. After all, the food is fantastic, and who doesn’t like a good margarita now and then?
This day has been confusing over the years, so let me clarify. Cinco de Mayo is not Mexican Independence Day. It is a day when the Battle of Puebla is remembered, as it was a significant victory for the Mexican army led by General Ignacio Zaragoza on May 5,1862, against Napoleon’s forces. The date has become more widely recognized as a day to celebrate pride among the Mexican people and Hispanic culture.
Joe Baca, a former American politician, had these observations:
Recognizing contributions from all cultures is valuable, particularly in SoCal, as we’re a melting pot of cultures. Understanding the battles fought to gain independence is also significant because, as Americans, we have fought battles for our independence and continue to champion other countries and cultures in their respective, similar efforts.
We fight other battles, as well. Let me shift our attention for a moment to our inner struggles. We sometimes push our bodies to their limits to achieve fitness when we’re reasonably healthy or have suffered some setback due to age, disease, or injury. We strive to regain and maintain our mental and emotional health after a bout with depression or anxiety, or when we’re struggling with our thoughts after a loss. We seek guidance and support when we’ve had a faith conflict or feel disconnected from our Source of peace and comfort.
These are not military battles, but are times when we desperately seek solace and fight for our safety and wellbeing. These are times when we will commit to, promise, or bargain with anyone or anything to win the prize of ability, happiness, understanding, or acceptance. Some battles, as with military action, are worth fighting, especially when our internal safety is on the line.
Scripture talks about battles in these contexts:
“Then all this assembly shall know that the Lord does not save with sword and spear; for the battle is the Lord’s, and He will give you into our hands.” 1 Samuel 17:47 (NKJV)
“For you equipped me with strength for the battle; you made those who rise against me sink under me.” 2 Samuel 22:40 (ESV)
“For You have encircled me with strength for the battle; You have subdued under me those who rose up against me.” Psalm 18:39 (AMP)
“Fight a good fight for the faith and claim eternal life. God offered it to you when you clearly told about your faith, while so many people listened.” 1 Timothy 6:12 (CEV)
Some battles are worth fighting. What are you struggling with lately? Maybe you’re trying to rebuild your life after a financial setback. What resources do you need to get yourself back in the black? Perhaps you’ve had a disappointment that left you wondering how to regain your sense of self, safety, and purpose. Is there someone you can talk with who can provide perspective and guidance? Maybe you’re exhausted and every little comment sends you into orbit because your anxiety is so high, you feel like you’re going to explode. Have you considered seeking counsel from a mental health professional? Or, perhaps you’re feeling alone, isolated, or spiritually bankrupt, wondering where God is in all of this. Is there a nearby church providing spiritual guidance or a pastor with whom you can pour out your heart?
These are significant battles for which we can find support and solutions. Think of your local resources. Maybe it’s time to try therapy at places like Worku Counseling. Or seek help from your nearby YMCA or community center. Think about what you need and then look for resources to assist you.
Take some time this week to consider battle strategies. You may be in the middle of something or know of someone else in the midst of a battle. Consider reaching out to that person and offering your help. Even if that’s just a cup of coffee and a listening ear, it can greatly support someone in crisis. I think you’re both worth fighting for!
Be Well & Be Blessed!
Lucinda
