Dia de Muertos en Mexico

Training in Mexico is off to great start. The students are respectful, warm, and eager to learn. Upon introduction many of them express a general state of happiness associated with this celebratory time of year. Walking the streets and squares i notice a sense of calm and peace that is strangely paired with skulls and gory symbols of death. Mexico's day of the dead is a deeply rooted tradition traced back to the Aztecs and other cultures of the Mexican highlands who believe that the spirits of the dead live in Mictlan. (a place of peace built by the gods). Once a year however they peacefully return to earth to visit loved ones. The traditional calender marks two dates for the souls to visit earth. Nov 1, is dedicated to the dead children and Nov 2 is reserved for the return of the departed adults. This celebration is one of great joy as it is an opportunity to experience a celebration with loved ones who have passed. The festival peaks with preparations of offerings and alters dedicated to the deceased of each family. The offerings can include intricately cut paper, drawings, photographs, items belonging to the deceased, favorite meals prepared, lights, candles, incense, flowers etc. Families take great pride in their offerings and many become beautiful works of art. These celebrations generally take place in public squares and cemeteries but many families open their homes to showcase their alters to the public. I'll definitely be a part of this humble celebration and I'm hoping to reconnect with some old friends along the way.