Have you ever dreamed about doing something that no one--not friends, family, nor coworkers approves of? Regardless, there's just something inside you that pushes you to silence all the critics and go for it. It takes lots of courage to be the first in your circle to think outside the box, but if you ultimately achieve your goal, there's no greater feeling. As Latinas, we are often raised with lots of rules of what is considered acceptable behavior. We're encouraged to pursue safe jobs (like doctors or lawyers), become a good wife sooner rather than later and put family above everything, even our own sanity. For some, this isn't a problem, but for others, the thought of following "tradition" makes them sick to their stomachs (this is true for me). Whatever your path, it's inevitable that you'll make difficult choices along the way. Sometimes those decisions will even go against what many may argue is the definition of a Latina. Well, that definition evolves each day. While we embrace the history of our culture, it's not a road map--it's just a guide. We can choose what to include in our lives and make up new rules as we go along. The freedom to live how we want is the gift of this country and our right as women. We all know there's nothing more empowering than independence.