Dia de los Muertos is a time in Mexico where people gather together and pray for the loved ones they have lost. During this time, family and friends come together to help peoples’ spiritual journey. My time spent in these small towns observing this timeless tradition will forever be a part of me. To see how entire communities come together to sit with families is something I wish everyone would get to experience at least once in their lives. Here is Dia De Los Muertos: A Community Embrace.
A little backstory:
I was making my way towards Puebla, where my friend Pablo lives. Pablo and I met back in Loreto, and met a couple more times along the road through Baja California. Pablo invited me to his home whenever I made it to his part of Mexico.
I realized I would make it to Pablo in time for Dia De Los Muertos. Pablo and I kept in touch here and there along the road, and I asked if he could show me the traditional way in which this amazing celebration is honored. Pablo told me he had the perfect spots he was going to check out this year, and that I should join him.
Small villages, big hearts.
After hanging with Pablo around the city of Puebla, we decided to get some rest. Tomorrow would be a big day! Around afternoon time, we left to pick up two of Pablo’s cousins. They were going to join us in the camping spot Pablo used to frequent as a child, and check out the villages with us as well.
We reached the village before sundown. We went to the first house we saw with flowers outside the entrance. The path of marigold flowers is considered to be put down for the people who have passed, so they can find their way home.
What awaits them on the other side of the entrance?
A beautiful altar strewn with everything they used to enjoy before they moved on. Among other things, their favorite beverages, food, clothing, and pictures are upon this altar waiting for their arrival.
Community embrace
When we showed up to these homes, there were always large groups of people observing each altar. Sometimes, the host would offer stories of their loved ones who have passed. What they used to do, and how they lived their daily lives. Memories they had of these people from long ago.
Every house we arrived to, offered us bread. More bread than anyone could ever handle. After the fourth house, it was pretty hard to eat any more. The hosts insisted on taking the bread with a beverage! Such a kind gesture for the big crowds of people coming to their homes.
To see and feel what it meant for the whole community to come together in honor of these people? Unforgettable. Traveling from home to home, staying for some time, eating their food, exchanging conversation. Above any miscommunications or fighting that may have happened, these people come together in the face of tough times.
Helping the people who have passed, and those who are still with us, move forward. To move forward with the knowing that people are there for them no matter what. That ultimately, whatever they may need, there is always someone to give a helping hand. How comforting that must feel, even after such a traumatic event.
Gravestones
After visiting many houses and observing many altars, we made our way to the cemetery. When we approached the cemetery, it was just as vibrant as the homes. Hundreds of people, sitting at the graves of their loved ones. Some singing, some praying, some sharing stories. The entire cemetery decorated with marigolds, candles, and personal items.
The atmosphere was peaceful yet alive with memories and love. Families had set up elaborate displays on the graves, complete with the deceased’s favorite foods, drinks, and possessions. The warm glow of countless candles illuminated the night, creating an almost magical scene.
Church ceremony
Shortly after it got dark, the church service began. The priest spent quite some time naming each and every person in the cemetery. The crowds of people totally quiet. Remembering their loved ones in total peace and harmony. Hundreds of people standing around their beloved while the priest finished the service.
The ceremony was deeply moving. To witness an entire community coming together in such a profound way, honoring their departed with such reverence and love, was something that touched my soul. The unity and respect shown during this sacred time was unlike anything I had ever experienced.
Leaving the village
It was time to say goodbye to the few people I had spoken to during this time. I made it a point to not get in anyone’s way, and spent most of the time observing from the corner of the cemetery. Re-lighting candles when they would go out around me from the wind. This, and picking up flowers that had fallen were my only contributions to this day. We left way after dark, the smell of incense burning far from the church.
This experience taught me so much about community, tradition, and the beautiful way Mexican culture honors those who have passed. The warmth and openness of the people, their willingness to welcome strangers into their most sacred moments, and the profound sense of connection between the living and the dead will stay with me forever.
‘Til next time,
Pete – A Traveling Teacher