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21 Things Only Polish-Americans Understand

"How do you pronounce your name, again?"

1. You always sing "Sto Lat" on family birthdays.

2. And no one knows how to properly pronounce your name.

3. You break off a piece of the Christmas oplatki and wish your family good luck on the next year.

4. And you know after dinner Babcia or someone is gonna toss on some polka.

5. You know being stubborn isn't a choice — it's in your genes.

6. You also know how you're going to vote in every election regardless of the candidates.

7. You know that eating pierogi is the most delicious way to consume potatoes...

8. Kielbasa is sausage in its most perfect form...

9. This is what horseradish is supposed to look like...

10. And no meal is complete without some rye bread.

11. You know śledzie (herring) is possibly the least appetizing-looking thing on the dinner table...

12. But you always have a cold beer to wash it down.

13. And plenty of treats to look forward to for dessert.

14. You know what disappointment looks like...

15. And you're bitter about Polish-born footballers that play for other countries.

16. You have a natural affinity for Polish-American athletes — no matter who they play for.

17. As well as any Vince Vaughn movies where he wears a Polish t-shirt — no matter if it's funny or not.

18. Your family has a picture of John Paul II hanging somewhere in your house.

19. Because they knew he was a saint way before he was canonized.

20. You've probably never been to Poland, but you still always tell people it's a beautiful place...

21. Because you're incredibly proud to be Polish.