I am from South America and have always thought Mexicans carry a chip on their shoulders. Mainly the men. It's that "macho" thing. ("no semos machos, pero semos muchos" ;). Many times, once you get the guys at the meat counter (my main reason to visit) to smile, they're really o.k. My gringo husband, who lived in my country for ten years, always chats them up and it's all good. Latinos don't relate to reticence well. Make eye contact, smile and you'll have a good experience.
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