Journal Entry #2

 "What is something you'd like to experience, but don't think you ever will?"


I want to experience the celebration of Día de los Muertos in Mexico. It's just a beautiful celebration, with an even more beautiful meaning. I hope to one day experience it with my favorite people, so that they too can see the beauty in this part of Mexican culture.


To provide some background, Día de los Muertos is a two-day holiday that honor our beloved that have passed away, and this day essentially reunites the living and the dead. It's a day to celebrate your passed-on loved ones, and remember all the good they have done. One tradition on this holiday is the creation of an "Ofrenda". Translating to "offerings", this is an altar created by family to set up pictures and treats for their late families. These altars also include Marigold flowers, and the purpose of these altars are to encourage visits from the land of the dead.



Another ubiquitous tradition of Day of the Dead are "calaveras" (skulls). On this day, skulls take on many forms, including clay decorations, sugar candies, and even face paintings. Something unique about these skulls are the fact that they have smiles of them, symbolizing the feeling of happiness even in the midst of death. A common misconception about Dia de los Muertos is that many people think it's "Mexican Halloween", and this is mainly due to the timing of the year. While the two holidays originated with similar modern-day beliefs, totally different holidays.


In my opinion, this is the most beautiful holiday to be celebrated. The vibrant colors, music, food, and family makes this day so much more special. I truly wish that someday I'll be able to travel to Mexico to experience this holiday. 

Comments

  1. dr. kyburzNovember 2, 2021 at 6:37 AM

    It would be amazing! I felt I came close a few times during celebrations in Phoenix, AZ, where I lived from 1996 - 1999. I love the sugar skulls, makeup, color, music... !

    ReplyDelete

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