I Love Venezuela
Isabella Hernandez
CARACAS—I will confess: being Venezuelan is exhausting. It is difficult to say goodbye to friends and family members who are leaving Venezuela forever. Yes, there is corruption, instability, a terrible government, a lack of food and basic resources, and constant blackouts, but I am proud to be Venezuelan. But you should remember all the great things that make Venezuela incredible.
Venezuela is its geography. Venezuela is one of the most diverse countries in the world in terms of flora and fauna. We have the most amazing beaches you can ever imagine. Los Roques, my personal favorite, is actually very safe. You would not have to cross the border to see snow-capped mountains, lush jungles, or roaring rivers. The largest uninterrupted waterfall, Angel Falls, is located in Canaima National Park in southeastern Venezuela. There are many indigenous tribes with their own unique culture and their own unique traditions
Venezuela is its people. I have never met a more generous, sympathetic, or attractive person outside of Venezuela than within its borders. It is nearly impossible someone does not give you a smile. I frequently hear, especially now, “Mi casa es tu casa” (my house is your house) and “donde caben uno, cabemos todos” (if it fits one, it fits everyone.” These common sayings highlight the generosity of Venezuelans. We have also won Miss Universe seven times, and Venezuela is the only country to have the title in two consecutive years.
Venezuela is its food. The best food I have ever had is in Venezuela. Arepas, made with flour and filled with cheese, pork, and eggs, are the ultimate Venezuelan delicacy. There are countless traditional foods that anyone can find all over the country. Freshly grown fruits and vegetables are the best in Venezuela. We really know what we are doing.
Venezuela is its immigrants. We have always accepted people from all around the world. Especially during World War II where people from all around the globe fled to Venezuela for a better life.
Being deprived of what teenagers have in countries such as the United States is hard. But I will never leave. We can’t. Our home is Venezuela. Even the current president, Nicolás Maduro, did not even finish high school and was a bus driver before instituting his tyrannical rule over millions. Even if he turned all the good in Venezuela to ash. Even if he made one of the richest countries in the world to one of the poorest. Even if he robbed Venezuela of everything, Venezuela still has its geography, its people, its food, and its immigrants. I hope the future brings wealth and happiness to the people of Venezuelans. Until then, I hope you realize Venezuela is more than what you see on the news, and Venezuela is truly a special place.