Dolores dice...To Thine Own Self Be True

Dear Dolores:

I’m a young woman of mixed Native American, Latina, African and Caucasian background. I find it very hard to hear people say bigoted things about one of the races or cultures I am a part of. I’m somehow expected to choose sides, but I love all the cultures that make up who I am. My problem is that I have a Caucasian boyfriend who doesn't know about my mixed background. Should I tell him or just let him think whatever he wants?

—Samya on the 'Net

Dear Samya:

¡Caramba! if ever there was a person who can truly say, "I am an American," that’s you m’ija. You come from four cultures and races from four different continent! I don’t see why this wonderful thing has to be a secret. You could just tell your novio that you are "quite continental" and let him think whatever he wants, or you could explain your rich and diverse background and why it means so much to you. If that's a problem for him, then I would hope that you would know what to do. I know I don't need to spell that part out for you!

—Always be true to yourself, D