The Oaxaca Lending Library offered a lecture of some of the Dia de Los Muertos celebrations, some information about the ofrendas (altars), and what is to be expected in the city, in the cemeteries, and around town. The presentation was about forty-five minutes long and mainly focused on Zapotec versions of the celebration. The second hour was spent building, with the expert assistance of a Oaxacan man named Michael, an altar featuring the members of the library who have passed.
Michael helped to shape the sugar cane into an arch with flowers and created another arch at the entrance of the library. He also helped with the placement of flowers: marigolds and coxcomb and candles and other special objects. He let us know also what we were missing: copal and a container for the incense and more marigolds to decorate the levels of the altar.
Only a few of the attendees wanted to help with the altar. This was perfect as I had a chance to be a part of the process. At first, because I am taller, I was in charge of posting the papel picado in layers on and behind the altar. Then, I got to help arrange the coxcomb and some of the trinkets for the dead. It was a beautiful multisensory experience; I really like the perfume of the marigolds.
And, I was grateful for the opportunity to learn about why, for example, there are three (or more) levels to the altar and whom we could expect to return for a visit. Some of our loved ones have already passed through the stages of purgatory and have been delivered to heaven. Those who have not may return to celebrate with us.
I have some shopping to do for my own altar. I want to welcome my own father to Oaxaca to have a Dr. Pepper and to hear some of the dance music this part of Mexcio offers. I think he would love to visit. Although most of me is certain he has already made his way to heaven.
shewhodaresnothing 