Mexico Today

Mexico is a land of contrasts: I expected dry, arid land and immediately the first of many misconceptions, stereotypes was dispelled. Leaving Guadalajara in the early light, we passed verdant fields, agave, corn, tomatoes, whatever produce is exported to America, this is the heartland. Later, traveling through larger cities like Morelia and Guadalajara, we encountered WalMart, Sam's Club, Costco, Office and Home Depot, malls and outlet stores, and global brand names, Coke, Pepsi, McDonald's, KFC, Burger King, Subway and more in communities of all sizes. Internet is available. Our cell phones worked everywhere. Supermercados are well-stocked for the middle-class who look like middle-class people around the world. All this exists within the economic diversity of the country.

The churches, cathedrals, basilicas are rich in gold and incredible art, many built centuries ago. Saints Days and religious holidays, especially Posada, Dia de los Muertos, and Semana Santa are all celebrated with both joy and reverence.

We were fortunate to witness a pilgrimage of Catholic men, women and children, walking from many miles away to the basilica near our bed and breakfast. Others came on buses from all over Mexico on July 7, to honor the day of the Maria Inmaculada de Salud, the patron saint of health, when believers pray for good health or recovery. Everyone carried flowers and walked in long lines, men in front, women and children behind, often through the rain, to the Basilica de la Salud in Patzcuaro. A few walked on their knees to the altar. Later in the day, fireworks and festivities, one of many celebrations throughout the year all over Mexico.

We met a well-educated tour guide, whose other job is professor of archaeology in Morelia, who had grown up in a "liberal" religious family. He calls himself spiritual, not a believer any longer, but nature and culture play a major part in his life. Religion has shaped the culture and economics of Mexico, with many different levels of participation and belief. The study of religion's social-political influence will reveal many intersections with poverty, family values and roles, war and health issues. Here we see the prayer for health and the devotion to the divine. Religious icons are everywhere in Mexico.