Blog #10 Fish Out of Water

El dia de los Muertos or the Day of the Dead is a significant holiday celebrated in Mexico and by Latin Americans that reside in the United States. Families and friends reminisce and pray for friends and family members who have passed away. This heartfelt celebration occurs on November 1st-2nd. I experienced the importance of the Day of the Dead by attending the “Day of the Dead: A Passion for Life” exhibit at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. library near San Jose State University. All of the photos at the exhibit were taken by renowned photo-journalist Mary J. Andrade.

The event I attended consisted of numerous photo exhibits as well as information about the history of the Day of the Dead. I learned that the Day of the Dead in Mexico represents a combination of Christian devotion and Pre-Hispanic beliefs. As a result of the collaboration, the celebration comes to by constructing an altar and giving offerings dedicated to the deceased. The altar includes the four main elements of nature: earth, wind, water, and fire. Each element is significant but I find the fire element most interesting in that each lit candle represents a soul and an extra unlit candle is placed for the forgotten soul.

Viewing the Day of the Dead exhibit, I had mixed emotions. From observing pictures of elaborate altars to the several vigils portrayed by photographs, I slowly began to understand the meaning of the Day of the Dead. Originally, I thought the Day of the Dead had to do with Halloween but I learned that the Mexican holiday has no relation whatsoever. As an outsider to this culture, I felt enlightened by what I had learn and saw. Some of the pictures such as the few of Catrinas, which are skeletons dressed as brides actually kind of scared me believe it or not.

Overall, attending Adrade's Day of the Dead exhibit taught me a little more about Latin culture. Learning about the true meaning of the Day of the Dead stirred up several emotions in me. The exhibit made me feel both scared and sad. Family and close friends mean a lot to me and Mexico's celebration with the Day of the Dead seems to honor and preserve the memories of those who have passed away. Knowing the true meaning of the Day of the Dead, I feel that I might actually attend the Day of the Dead next year to commemorate my appreciation my godmother who passed away not too long ago. Attending Andrade's interesting exhibit really made me feel as if I truly were a fish out of the water.