I don’t recall hearing about “Cinco de Mayo” as I was growing up. It wasn’t until I was an adult and viewed it as an excuse to have a margarita or two that it took on any significance for me. And even then, it was sort of just another day to meet up with friends and enjoy Mexican food and drink (in honor of the Mexican victory at the Battle of Puebla – which Mexico doesn’t even really celebrate, though I’m sure they appreciate us doing so for them?!)

I have a handful of fun, silly Cinco memories which needn’t be repeated. I have a fond memory of my daughter’s first Cinco — itty-bitty, not yet two months old, bundled in her pumpkin seat, hanging outside at our favorite Mexican restaurant with a dear group of friends I don’t get to see so much anymore.

Cinco de Mayo took on a different meaning for me 17 years ago: It was the day my grandmother went to be with God — which somehow seemed appropriate, as she loved her trips to Mexico AND loved a reason to celebrate. I believe she was ready to go. We’d celebrated her 100th birthday two months earlier. She’d lived a long, full life, and I believe she was at peace. But in a lot of ways, I’m still not ready for her to go. Or I wish she could come back and visit every once in a while. There’s so much I’d love to sit and chat with her about – over margaritas and a mean game of Canasta.

This “Moore to the Point” commentary aired on NewsTalkSTL on Friday, May 5th. Audio included below.