November 1st is all Saints Day, the 2nd, All Souls Day, and in Latin America it is a very special and beautiful time filled with tradition. In Santiago Atitlán many thousands filled the cemetery to pay respect to their loved ones. The men added a fresh coat of paint to the crosses or the family crypts, and weeded the mounds or planted small shrubs or flowers. People carried large bags of pine needles to cover the graves, buckets of cut flowers, candles, incense, and food and drink. Some brought musical instruments. The young boys set off fireworks, the cotton candy and ice cream vendors were busy, and most everyone seemed to be enjoying this time together with family.

For me it was a time to visit old friends and their families. One in particular Tomas Coché Ajuchan died on Christmas Day, 2002, from complications from diabetes. He was 54 and my reason for becoming actively involved in the Hospitalito. Thank you Tomas, for leading me to such wonderful work.