Colombia is a nation of breathtaking diversity, where the Andes mountains meet the Caribbean Sea, and where the dense Amazon rainforest merges with the vast plains of the Orinoco. However, beyond its geographic splendor and the literary legacy of "Magical Realism" championed by Gabriel GarcÃa Márquez, Colombia possesses a rich, vibrant oral tradition. This cultural heritage is best expressed through its proverbs—pithy, humorous, and often sharply cynical sayings that guide everyday life. These aphorisms are a blend of Spanish colonial heritage, indigenous wisdom, and African influences, creating a unique philosophical tapestry that defines the Colombian character.
The wisdom found in Colombian proverbs often revolves around the concept of "malicia indÃgena" (indigenous malice), which does not imply evil, but rather a necessary street smarts or cunning required to survive and thrive. Colombian culture places a high value on quick wit, resilience, and the ability to navigate complex social hierarchies with humor. The sayings are frequently metaphorical, utilizing imagery from nature, food, and religious life to convey lessons about caution, trust, and the unpredictability of destiny. In a country that has faced significant historical challenges, these proverbs serve as a verbal armor, teaching resilience and the importance of looking forward with hope and determination.
Furthermore, these sayings act as a social regulator within Colombian communities. They are used by grandmothers to scold unruly children, by friends to offer advice over a cup of strong coffee, and by business partners to negotiate deals. They bridge the gap between the formal and the informal, often favoring practical experience over theoretical knowledge. To understand the heart of Colombia, one must listen to its streets and its countryside. The following collection offers a deep dive into the soul of this fascinated nation, presenting wisdom that is as colorful and spirited as the country itself.
POPULAR PROVERBS
Prudence, Street Smarts, and Survival
"Don't give papaya."
This is perhaps the most famous and quintessentially Colombian rule of life. It means that you should not put yourself in a position where you can be easily taken advantage of or exploited. It serves as a warning to always be alert, keep your valuables hidden, and never lower your guard in public, emphasizing the high value placed on situational awareness in Colombian society.
"If you give papaya, it will be eaten."
This is the immediate corollary to the previous proverb, completing the circle of street smarts. It implies that if you are foolish enough to expose a weakness or leave an opportunity open for others to exploit, someone will inevitably take that opportunity. It shifts the blame from the opportunist to the person who was careless enough to present the temptation.
"He who has a straw tail shouldn't go near the candle."
This saying warns against hypocrisy and the dangers of exposing one's own faults while criticizing others. If you have a hidden flaw, a guilty conscience, or a past indiscretion (the straw tail), you should avoid situations or conflicts (the candle) that might expose you to scrutiny. It suggests that those with secrets should keep a low profile.
"The shrimp that falls asleep gets carried away by the current."
This vivid image speaks to the necessity of constant vigilance and activity. In a fast-paced world, laziness or inattention results in being left behind or suffering negative consequences. It is a call to action, reminding people that the world does not wait for those who hesitate or rest on their laurels.
"Not everything that shines is gold."
A universal warning against being deceived by appearances, this proverb is deeply ingrained in Colombian culture. It advises skepticism regarding deals that look too good to be true or people who appear overly charming. It encourages looking beneath the surface to find the true value or intent of a situation.
"Better to be alone than in bad company."
Colombians value social connections, but they value their peace of mind even more. This proverb suggests that solitude is preferable to maintaining toxic relationships or associating with people who bring trouble. It emphasizes self-preservation and the importance of curating one's social circle carefully.
"Tell me who you walk with, and I will tell you who you are."
This saying highlights the belief that a person is judged by the company they keep. It serves as a warning to young people that their reputation is tied to their friends. It reflects a society where social standing and reputation are crucial currency, and guilt by association is a real phenomenon.
"In a closed mouth, no flies enter."
Silence is often the best policy to avoid trouble or misunderstanding. This proverb advises discretion, suggesting that if you keep your thoughts to yourself and avoid gossiping or speaking out of turn, you will avoid the "flies" of conflict and embarrassment. It champions the virtue of prudence in speech.
"The devil knows more because he is old than because he is the devil."
This proverb places a premium on experience over raw intelligence or talent. It suggests that wisdom is accumulated through the passage of time and living through various experiences. It encourages respect for elders, implying that their knowledge comes from surviving life's trials rather than inherent power.
"He who searches finds."
While this can be positive, in Colombian context, it often carries a warning tone. If you go looking for trouble, secrets, or reasons to be jealous, you will inevitably find them. It suggests that sometimes ignorance is bliss and that prying into matters that don't concern you will lead to unpleasant discoveries.
"Clothes don't make the monk."
Similar to not judging a book by its cover, this proverb reminds us that external appearances can be deceiving. A person may dress successfully or act piously, but that does not reflect their true character. It urges people to judge others based on their actions and integrity rather than their attire or social presentation.
"When the river sounds, it is because it carries stones."
This is the Colombian equivalent of "where there's smoke, there's fire." It implies that rumors usually have some basis in truth. If people are talking about a specific issue or person, even if the details are exaggerated, there is likely a core reality that triggered the speculation.
"Don't count the chickens before they are hatched."
This advises against celebrating a victory or a financial gain before it is actually secured. It speaks to the uncertainty of life and the foolishness of making plans based on assumptions. It teaches patience and the importance of dealing with reality rather than potentiality.
"Better a bird in hand than one hundred flying."
This emphasizes the value of security over risk. It is better to have a sure thing, even if it is modest, than to risk it all for the possibility of a greater, but uncertain, reward. It reflects a practical, conservative approach to decision-making and resource management.
"He who excuses himself accuses himself."
If someone offers an explanation or an apology when none was asked for, they are likely guilty. This psychological insight suggests that a guilty conscience compels people to defend themselves prematurely. It is a tool used to detect lies or hidden agendas in social interactions.
"Paper holds everything."
This cynical proverb warns against blindly trusting written contracts or promises. Just because something is written down doesn't mean it is true or that it will be honored. It reflects a distrust of bureaucracy and emphasizes that reality often differs from what is theoretically planned or documented.
"Eyes that don't see, heart that doesn't feel."
Ignorance can spare one from emotional pain. If you are unaware of a betrayal or a tragedy, you cannot suffer from it. While it can be seen as a justification for hiding the truth, it also acknowledges that sometimes distance and lack of information are necessary for emotional self-preservation.
"Malice is part of the game."
This reinforces the idea that one must anticipate the cunning of others. It suggests that in life, business, and love, one should expect a degree of trickery or strategy. It normalizes the concept of being street-smart and encourages people not to be naive participants in the game of life.
"He who doesn't cry, doesn't get breastfed."
This is a fundamental lesson in assertiveness. If you do not voice your needs, complain about injustice, or ask for what you want, you will be ignored. It encourages people to speak up and advocate for themselves, as passivity leads to neglect.
"Secure does not kill trust."
Taking precautions does not mean you distrust someone; it just ensures safety. This is used to justify locking doors, signing contracts, or verifying information even with friends. It frames caution as a way to preserve relationships by preventing misunderstandings or temptations.
Work, Ambition, and Persistence
"To God praying, and with the mallet giving."
This proverb perfectly encapsulates the balance between faith and action. While it is good to pray for assistance, one must also work hard (hit with the mallet) to achieve goals. It rejects passivity and emphasizes that divine help complements human effort, it does not replace it.
"He who has a store should tend to it, or else sell it."
Responsibility is non-negotiable. If you undertake a business or a duty, you must be present and active in its management. Negligence leads to failure, so if you cannot commit the necessary time and energy, it is better to step away entirely than to do a poor job.
"Laziness is the mother of all vices."
This is a traditional warning against idleness. When a person has nothing to do, they are more likely to fall into bad habits or trouble. It promotes the value of industry and keeping busy as a way to maintain moral and personal integrity.
"Slowly because I am in a hurry."
This counter-intuitive saying suggests that rushing leads to mistakes, which ultimately takes more time to fix. To truly be efficient when time is short, one must act with precision and calm. It values quality and correctness over chaotic speed.
"There is no bread meant for a dog that is eaten by another."
This speaks to destiny in the context of professional or financial gain. What is meant for you will come to you, and no one can take away your rightful blessings. It offers comfort in the face of competition, suggesting that if you missed an opportunity, it wasn't truly yours to begin with.
"The sun rises for everyone."
This is an optimistic proverb about opportunity. It implies that there is enough abundance in the world for everyone to succeed. It discourages envy and encourages people to focus on their own path, knowing that they too will have their moment in the light.
"He who wakes up early, God helps."
A classic exhortation to diligence and discipline. Starting the day early is seen as a virtue that attracts divine favor and success. It reflects the agrarian roots of the culture where the workday begins at dawn and suggests that success belongs to the energetic.
"Water that you will not drink, let it run."
If an opportunity or resource is not useful to you, do not hoard it or block others from accessing it. It encourages letting go of things that do not serve your purpose so that the flow of life continues. It serves as advice against greed and unnecessary attachment.
"One hand washes the other, and both wash the face."
This illustrates the power of cooperation and reciprocity. Mutual aid allows both parties to achieve a greater goal (washing the face) that neither could achieve as easily alone. It emphasizes that success is often a collective effort based on helping one another.
"What starts wrong, ends wrong."
This warns about the importance of foundations. If a project or relationship begins with lies, shortcuts, or bad intentions, the outcome will inevitably be negative. It advises fixing problems at the source rather than hoping they will resolve themselves over time.
"He who perseveres, conquers."
A simple yet powerful testament to tenacity. Success is not always about talent, but about the refusal to give up. In a culture that values the "hustle," this proverb reminds people that endurance is the key to overcoming obstacles and achieving dreams.
"Cheap things turn out expensive."
Trying to save money by cutting corners or buying low-quality goods often leads to greater costs in the long run when things break or fail. It advises investing in quality and value rather than looking for the easiest, cheapest solution immediately.
"Do good and don't look at whom."
Charity and kindness should be unconditional. You should help others because it is the right thing to do, not because of who they are or what they can do for you. It promotes a sense of altruism and moral rectitude in daily actions.
"Of that which is so good, they don't give so much."
This suggests skepticism regarding offers that seem excessively generous. In business and life, high value usually requires high cost or effort. If something is being given away freely or easily, it is likely of lower quality than advertised or carries a hidden catch.
"Every pig gets its Saturday."
Referencing the traditional day for slaughtering livestock, this means that everyone eventually faces judgment or the consequences of their actions. It is often used to refer to corrupt or evil people, reassuring others that justice will eventually arrive, even if it is delayed.
"To foolish words, deaf ears."
When facing criticism, insults, or useless advice, the best reaction is to ignore it completely. It empowers the listener to choose what affects them, suggesting that negative words only have power if you choose to listen to and validate them.
"The habit makes the monk."
Contradicting the earlier proverb slightly, this suggests that consistent action and discipline can shape a person. By acting the part and adhering to the routines of a role, one eventually embodies that role. It speaks to the power of habit and practice in professional development.
"He who strikes first, strikes twice."
In conflicts or competitive situations, taking the initiative gives you a decisive advantage. It encourages decisiveness and speed, suggesting that hesitation allows the opponent to gain the upper hand. It is a strategic maxim for negotiation and confrontation.
"God gives a beard to he who has no jaw."
This expresses the irony of life where resources or talents are often given to those who cannot use or appreciate them. It reflects a sense of resignation regarding the unfair distribution of gifts in the world, acknowledging that life is not always a meritocracy.
"Little by little, one goes far."
Patience and incremental progress are celebrated here. You do not need to make giant leaps to succeed; small, consistent steps will eventually lead to the destination. It is a comforting thought for those facing long, difficult journeys or massive projects.
Family, Love, and Social Bonds
"Son of a tiger comes out painted."
This implies that children inherit the traits, talents, and flaws of their parents. It is similar to "the apple doesn't fall far from the tree." It is used to explain behavior in children that mirrors their parents, whether that behavior is admirable or troublesome.
"Love with hunger doesn't last."
This practical proverb reminds lovers that romance cannot survive on emotion alone; basic needs must be met. Financial stability and sustenance are necessary foundations for a relationship. It serves as a reality check against overly romanticized views of poverty and love.
"The dead to the hole and the living to the ball."
Life must go on. While we mourn the dead, the living must continue to enjoy life, celebrate, and dance (the ball). It reflects a pragmatic approach to grief, emphasizing that life is for the living and that dwelling endlessly on sorrow is unproductive.
"There is no worse deaf person than the one who doesn't want to hear."
You cannot help someone who refuses to accept reality or advice. This is often applied to family members or friends in denial about a bad relationship or a poor decision. It acknowledges the limits of intervention when the other party is obstinate.
"Between husband and wife, no one should interfere."
Marital disputes are private and complex. Outsiders, even close family, should not get involved in the arguments of a couple because they do not understand the full dynamic. It warns that intervening usually leads to the meddler being resented by both parties once they reconcile.
"Love is blind, but the neighbors are not."
While you may overlook the faults of your partner due to infatuation, the community sees everything clearly. It serves as a humorous warning that public displays or toxic dynamics are noticed by others, even if the couple thinks they are being discreet or thinks their problems are invisible.
"Works are loves, and not good reasons."
True love is demonstrated through actions, not just words or promises. It demands tangible proof of affection and commitment. It is a call to judge relationships by what is actually done for one another rather than what is merely said.
"He who loves you will make you cry."
This controversial but common saying suggests that true friends or partners will tell you the hard truths that hurt, for your own good. Alternatively, it can imply that deep emotional investment inevitably leads to suffering because you care so much. It highlights the complexity and pain inherent in deep bonds.
"Marriage and shroud, from heaven come down."
Destiny plays a major role in who we marry and when we die. These are viewed as two of the few things in life that are preordained by God. It offers a sense of fatalism, suggesting you cannot force marriage nor avoid death; they happen when they are meant to.
"Crowded house, empty soul."
Having many people around does not guarantee a lack of loneliness. One can be surrounded by family or guests and still feel spiritually empty or disconnected. It distinguishes between physical proximity and genuine emotional connection.
"Raise crows, and they will gouge out your eyes."
This is a harsh warning about ingratitude, particularly in raising children or helping proteges. If you indulge someone too much or raise them without values, they may eventually turn against you and cause you harm. It speaks to the fear of betrayal by those you nurtured.
"Blood is thicker than water."
A universal concept that holds great weight in Colombia. Family bonds take precedence over friendships or other associations. In times of crisis, it is expected that family will support family, regardless of personal differences or past conflicts.
"Where there was fire, ashes remain."
Old romances are never truly dead. If two people once loved each other, the potential for that passion to reignite always exists. It serves as a warning to current partners about their significant others' exes and acknowledges the enduring nature of deep connection.
"He who leaves for Bogota, loses his seat."
Originally a variation of "He who leaves for Seville," this means that if you vacate your position or leave your partner unattended, someone else will take your place. It warns against abandoning one's post or taking relationships for granted, as nothing is reserved indefinitely.
"A good listener needs few words."
In close relationships, subtle hints should be enough. You shouldn't have to explain everything in detail if the connection is strong and the other person is attentive. It values intuition and emotional intelligence in social interactions.
"Friends are one thing, and business is another."
Mixing money and friendship is a recipe for disaster. This proverb advises keeping financial dealings separate from social relationships to preserve the bond. It suggests that the ruthlessness required in business is incompatible with the gentleness required in friendship.
"Face of a saint, nails of a cat."
This describes someone who appears innocent and kind but is actually malicious or dangerous. It is often used in the context of dating to warn someone that their new love interest is not as angelic as they seem. It reiterates the theme of deceptive appearances.
"When poverty comes in the door, love goes out the window."
Similar to "love with hunger doesn't last," this emphasizes the strain that financial hardship places on relationships. It suggests that romantic feelings are often fragile when confronted with the brutal realities of economic survival.
"Look at the aunt to see how the girl will be."
To understand how a young woman will mature, look at her female relatives. It speaks to the belief in genetic and environmental continuity within families. It serves as advice for suitors to observe the family to understand the future of their partner.
"He who marries, wants a house."
Privacy is essential for a new marriage. A newlywed couple needs their own space, away from in-laws and extended family, to build their life. It advises against living with parents after marriage, emphasizing the need for independence.
Fate, God, and the Nature of Life
"Not a leaf moves without the will of God."
This expresses the deep religious faith prevalent in Colombia. It implies that everything, from the smallest event to the largest tragedy, is part of a divine plan. It offers comfort in difficult times, suggesting that there is a higher purpose behind chaos.
"What is for one, is for one."
A statement of pure fatalism. If something is destined for you, it will happen regardless of what you do. Conversely, if it is not meant for you, no amount of effort will secure it. It encourages acceptance of life's outcomes.
"God squeezes but does not strangle."
Life will present difficulties and tests, but they will never be more than you can handle. This proverb offers hope during struggles, suggesting that divine providence will always leave a way out or provide the strength to endure the pressure.
"There is no evil that lasts a hundred years, nor body that resists it."
Everything is temporary, including suffering. Problems will eventually end, either because the situation changes or because death brings release. It is a stoic reminder that time serves as the ultimate resolution to all troubles.
"Every day brings its own bread."
Do not worry excessively about the future; focus on the present. Just as today has provided what you need, tomorrow will do the same. It encourages living in the moment and trusting that needs will be met as they arise.
"What doesn't kill you makes you fat."
While literally referring to food dropped on the floor (germs won't kill you, just eat it), metaphorically it means that difficult experiences make you stronger (or "thicker" skinned). It is a humorous way to dismiss minor setbacks or risks.
"He who laughs last, laughs best."
The final outcome is what matters, not the intermediate victories. Even if you are losing now, patience and strategy may lead to a final victory that is sweeter for the wait. It warns against premature celebration and arrogance.
"God helps the bad one when he is more than the good one."
This cynical proverb observes that sometimes evil people seem to prosper or have luck on their side. It acknowledges the confusion and frustration felt when justice does not seem to prevail immediately in the world.
"The remedy is worse than the disease."
Sometimes the solution applied to a problem causes more damage than the original problem itself. It warns against overreacting or using harsh measures without considering the side effects. It calls for measured and thoughtful responses to crises.
"To bad weather, a good face."
When things are going wrong, maintain a positive attitude. Complaining will not change the weather or the situation, but a good attitude makes it bearable. It is a call for resilience and optimism in the face of adversity.
"Tree that grows crooked never straightens its trunk."
Habits and character are formed early. If a person (or a child) develops bad traits early in life, it is nearly impossible to correct them later. It emphasizes the importance of early education and discipline.
"No one knows what they have until they lose it."
We often take blessings for granted until they are gone. This proverb serves as a reminder to appreciate health, family, and stability while they are present, rather than regretting their absence later.
"Better late than never."
It is better to achieve something or arrive at a realization late than to miss it entirely. It encourages redemption and effort, even if the optimal timeline has passed. It forgives delay in favor of completion.
"Everything in life has a solution, except death."
As long as you are alive, there is hope. No problem is truly insurmountable except the end of life itself. This proverb is used to put problems into perspective and encourage people to keep searching for answers.
"Custom is stronger than love."
Routine and habit can bind people together more powerfully than emotion. It suggests that relationships or behaviors often persist not because of passion, but because they have become the established way of life. It acknowledges the inertia of human behavior.
"Variety is the spice of life."
Doing the same thing repeatedly leads to boredom. Life requires change, different experiences, and new flavors to be enjoyable. It encourages trying new things and breaking out of monotony.
"He who doesn't look ahead, stays behind."
You must plan for the future. Living entirely in the present without foresight leads to stagnation. It advises keeping one eye on the horizon to anticipate changes and prepare for what is coming.
"Opportunity makes the thief."
This suggests that people are not inherently evil, but temptation can corrupt anyone. If you leave something unguarded, you create the opportunity for theft. It places the responsibility on individuals to remove temptations from their environment.
"The world is a handkerchief."
The world is small. You will inevitably run into people you know in the most unexpected places. It serves as a warning that you cannot hide your actions easily, as connections are everywhere and paths often cross.
"Time heals everything."
Emotional pain fades with the passage of time. It offers comfort to the heartbroken, assuring them that the intensity of their suffering is temporary and that perspective will eventually bring peace.
Irony, Warnings, and Reality Checks
"A dog that barks doesn't bite."
People who make loud threats or are overly aggressive verbally are usually not the ones to fear. They use noise to compensate for a lack of action. The true danger lies in those who are silent and act without warning.
"In the land of the blind, the one-eyed man is king."
In a situation where everyone is ignorant or incompetent, the person with even a little bit of knowledge or skill dominates. It speaks to the relativity of power and the advantage of having even a slight edge over the competition.
"He who distributes and shares, keeps the best part."
The person in charge of dividing resources usually ensures they benefit the most. It is a cynical observation of corruption and power dynamics, suggesting that those in power will always look out for themselves first.
"Don't look a gift horse in the mouth."
If you receive a gift or a favor, do not criticize it or check for flaws. Accept it with gratitude. Checking the teeth of a horse is how you determine its age and value; doing so to a gift is rude and ungrateful.
"Scarcity breeds clarity."
When resources are tight, you learn who your real friends are and what is truly important. Hardship strips away the superficial and reveals the essential truths of life and relationships.
"Every thief judges by his condition."
Dishonest people assume everyone else is also dishonest. If someone accuses you of cheating or lying without proof, it is often a projection of their own behavior. It helps in understanding the psychology of accusers.
"The command is eaten, but the envelope is not."
You can accept a favor or a job (the command) without accepting the insults or mistreatment that might come with it (the envelope). It suggests maintaining dignity even when serving others or accepting help.
"Hunger is the best sauce."
When you are truly needy or hungry, anything tastes good or seems acceptable. It reminds us that our standards are often dictated by our circumstances and that luxury is a matter of perspective.
"Even the best scribe creates a blot."
Everyone makes mistakes, even experts. It advises forgiveness and humility, reminding us that perfection is impossible and that a single error does not negate a person's overall skill or worth.
"He who spits up, gets it in the face."
If you criticize something or someone arrogantly (spitting up at the sky), gravity will bring it back to you. It warns that arrogance and judgment often backfire, leading to self-humiliation.
"When the cat is away, the mice party."
When authority figures are absent, chaos ensues. It speaks to the human tendency to break rules when supervision is removed. It is often used in workplaces or schools to describe behavior when the boss or teacher leaves.
"A full belly, a happy heart."
Physical needs affect emotional states. It is difficult to be happy or agreeable when you are hungry. This proverb highlights the importance of hospitality and feeding others to ensure harmony and satisfaction.
"Dirt that doesn't kill, fattens."
A repetition of the earlier sentiment regarding hygiene, but specifically focusing on the idea that exposure to the world's messiness builds immunity. It encourages a robust, less fastidious approach to life.
"He who has a mouth makes mistakes."
To err is human. If you speak, you risk saying something wrong. It is used to excuse slips of the tongue or incorrect statements, normalizing the fact that communication is fraught with potential for error.
"To the ungrateful, show them the door."
Do not waste time on those who do not appreciate your efforts. If someone does not value what you do, remove them from your life. It values self-respect over the need to please everyone.
"Better to be the head of a mouse than the tail of a lion."
It is better to be a leader in a small group or enterprise than a nobody in a large, prestigious one. It champions autonomy and leadership, suggesting that influence is more satisfying than mere association with greatness.
"He who owes nothing, fears nothing."
A clear conscience is the best pillow. If you have acted with integrity and have no debts (financial or moral), you have no reason to be afraid of authority or judgment. It links peace of mind directly to ethical behavior.
"Words are carried away by the wind."
Verbal promises are fleeting and unreliable. Unless something is done or written down, it does not exist. It warns against relying on mere talk and emphasizes the permanence of actions over speech.
"Each person does with their life a kite."
A kite flies wherever the wind takes it, or however the owner steers it. This means everyone is free to manage their own life as they see fit, even if it looks chaotic to others. It is a phrase of tolerance for others' eccentric choices.
"Whatever will be, will be."
A final note of acceptance. The future is uncertain, and worrying will not change it. This proverb encourages a relaxed attitude toward the unknown, embracing the flow of life with a typically Colombian resilience.
Conclusion
The proverbs of Colombia are more than just quaint sayings; they are the distillation of centuries of survival, joy, faith, and "malicia." They paint a picture of a people who are deeply realistic about the hardships of life yet stubbornly optimistic about the future. From the warnings about "giving papaya" to the faithful reliance on God's will, these aphorisms offer a roadmap for navigating the complexities of the human experience with grace and humor.
Whether you are navigating the bustling streets of Bogotá or the quiet coffee plantations of the Andes, these pearls of wisdom remain relevant. They teach us to be sharp, to value our families, to work hard, and above all, to laugh in the face of adversity. As you reflect on these sayings, you may find that the wisdom of Colombia resonates with your own life journey, proving that true wisdom knows no borders.
Which of these Colombian proverbs resonated with you the most? Have you ever "given papaya" and learned a hard lesson? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
FURTHER READING
- Recommended ReadingThe Soul of Spanish Proverbs: Wisdom from the Iberian Peninsula
- Recommended ReadingMexican Dichos: Humor and Philosophy from Our Neighbors
- Recommended ReadingBrazilian Wisdom: Portuguese Sayings from the Tropics