People are usually surprised when I tell them I’m from the Bronx. The Bronx is associated with being scary and loud. I don’t really fit into that description, but that doesn’t take away from the fact that I grew up in the borough and have learned much from my experiences there. Growing up in the Bronx has added a sense of solidity to my personality and demeanor. I’ve learned to love my neighborhood of Pelham Parkway and all that it values. Even though I don’t take enough time to appreciate the places and experiences the Bronx has to offer, it is a diverse place that few know the extent of. Here are some things that people from the Bronx can really acknowledge and appreciate.
1. “Dead*ss” is an important part of our vocabulary.
All of New York knows this term, but I feel like people from the Bronx use it non-stop. For people not from New York, the beauty of the word lies in its ability to be used in any kind of context. It can be used to emphasize a statement or as a question. It adds emotion to what someone is saying and dead*ss just rolls off the tongue.
2. Bodegas are everywhere, and they always have a pet cat.
I can bet you there is a bodega every three blocks in the Bronx and it’s extremely convenient. A bodega is basically a deli that sells snacks, sandwiches and other necessities. The neighborhood bodega is familiar with everyone and down to have a convo with anyone. It also has a random cat wandering around the vicinity. I honestly don’t know why it’s a thing, but it adds to the experience of it.
3. Fordham has everything.
A shopping staple of the Bronx is Fordham Road. It has every kind of store possible, so there’s no difficulty in finding what you need or want. It especially caters to local sneakerheads who need to keep up with the latest shoe trend, so if you need a new pair of kicks, Fordham is the place to go.
4. Dominican food is so good.
An annoying thing I have to deal with is visiting my orthodontist once a month back home, but one of the upsides of the visit is this really great Dominican restaurant next to the office. It’s definitely not one of the only Dominican places around but I’ve learned to love and appreciate good Spanish food. It always tastes homemade and fills you up.
5. The Bronx is more than just the Bronx Zoo.
I remember I told someone I was from the Bronx and they asked, “How’s the Bronx Zoo?” like that’s all the Bronx had to offer. Yes, there is also the Botanical Garden and Yankee Stadium but there’s also the diversity of the Bronx that makes it so unique and notable.
I think most people find the Bronx intimidating and I can definitely see why, but it’s a place worth getting to know. It’s my home and I’m glad I’ve gotten to live most of my life there. In the words of Cardi B, “I’m just a regular, degular, shmegular girl from the Bronx.”
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