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THE DAY OF THE DEAD
 

A Oaxacan Family Altar
Oaxacan Family Altar - Exhibit PhotoAdorned with marigolds and other flowers, Oaxacan-style altars have crop foods representing the earth; tissue paper cut-out decorations called papel picado representing the wind; and candles representing not only fire, but also the souls of those who are being remembered. Favorite prepared foods, pan de muerto (bread of the dead), drinks, personal items, and decorations are placed with a dish of salt to purify the soul, water to quench its thirst, and copal incense and flowers to help guide it back home and ward off evil spirits. The essence of the incense, drink, and food will be enjoyed by visiting souls and the food later eaten or given away.

Altars, or ofrendas, are not for worshiping but for offering our love and remembering our departed family members. It is not a sad ritual. It's a day of happiness because we will be remembering our loved ones. It is not a careless or fearless confrontation of death. It is a moment to reflect upon one's life and the cycle of life and death.
Day of the Dead, May Herz

  DAY OF
THE DEAD
 
 
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  EGYPTIAN
MUMMY
 
 
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