Altars

The steps of Teatro Juarez, the alcove of a church, the corner of the tiny neighborhood tienda, the front of a neighbor's house - all became sacred spots for a day or two as people all over Guanajuato constructed altars to honor the suffering of Mary, Mother of Christ, on Viernes de Dolores, the Friday before Palm Sunday. Over the past two days, it has been enchanting to turn a corner or peek in a doorway and see a gorgeous altar there. At the center is always a picture of the Virgin Mary, sorrowful and full of grace. Her image is framed by draperies of deep purple and white, by multicolored papel picado banners, and by branches of green-silver leaves like aspens. Bananas and oranges are stacked around or even hang above the altar; a few altars have pineapples and fish. Candles flutter on ledges and thick bouquets of purple and white flowers stand at the front.

I am in love with this tradition of altars. Anyplace can become holy.