By: Luis Larios
What happens when someone leaves us? Not talking about walking away, but not being on this earth any longer, how can someone cope with such an empty hole that has been left after the unfortunate event. For many there is no activity to fill the void that was left before,however for others doing certain things brings them closure each time they do it. Many of them focus on religion and their traditions.
Being so close to November 2 or day of the dead (Dia De Los Muertos) a tradition that focuses on remembering those who have left us behind. Within this tradition many see it as a celebration, however, for most people it is a way to reminisce on the person they have made the altar to, having the feeling of them coming once the date comes in order to enjoy their favorite meals, drinks and even other things that are placed within that altar.
The dates in which the altars are being placed are from October 27 and November 2, this having a timeline in which different things happen, from placing the altar and the picture of the one being celebrated to having the offering for them. Thought the few days in which this is being done, the cemetery lights up with candles and flowers which gives it a different life and meaning during those times.
This event or day of celebration has made a big impact in Mexican Culture, with having events honoring those who have left early, to having parades showing the work of art of the characters who have through time been a symbol of the days to celebrate. Many families often travel to different parts of the country in order to do this tradition, oftentimes resulting in developing traditions within their family and giving those family members a way to bond and become closer as time passes.