El Monumento al Jibaro Puertorriqueno pays homage to the Puerto Rican Jibaro- a humble, hardworking and wise man who lived in poverty with little or no formal education. Boriquas, Puerto Ricans, PortaRocks, PuertoRiquenos and NuyoRicans are deeply indebted to the perseverance, resourcefulness and passion of our people from the hills.
While driving South on Route 52, Lorena and I came across nuestros abuelos/our grandparents and knew we had to stop and pay our respects. We had just enjoyed a tasty meal at "Mojitos," a lechonera in Guavate, just prior to arriving at the monument. Our senses were heightened - the sights, sounds, scents and tastes of Puerto Rico were alive to us. They revealed that the moment we shared with El Jibaro and his family were timeless. In that instant we were our grandparents and their parents and all those who struggled to make sure that we could live the lives we lead today. While reflecting on el jibaro's family we began to discuss our forefathers/mothers and the many mountains they traversed as they eked out a living. Could they ever have imagined what would become of their lineage? Did they know that their blood, sweat and tears were not in vain? Whether they knew it or not, their humble beginnings gave birth to a rich inheritance. Today sons and daughters, grandchildren and great grandchildren are still moving forward and enjoying the rich inheritance they have been given.
La herencia/the inheritance is something more than money and property. In our culture, in our reality, it is the pride and joy of knowing that all those who follow us will lead better lives than we did. The inheritance is knowing that we worked hard and stood tall so others can stand on our shoulders and begin their journey from higher heights. Nuestros abuelos lucharon y ganaron!! Lord help us to do the same...
