This weekend we explored more of México’s rich history and culture.
Templo Mayor
Our first stop was Templo Mayor, a sacred place that embodies the empire of the Mexica people (Aztecs). This temple was historically built for the people to engage in their religious rites, such as observing priests’ performances, praying and make offering to their gods. Going through the remains and reading about the many etapas (or levels) to the templo, which were built by the 7 different Mexica leader during each of their reigns, provided us with a great learning experience. We learned about all the challenges that the Mexica people faced during Spanish invasion. One important takeaway from Templo Mayor was the knowledge that although the Mexica people essentially “disappeared” as time passed, there is another group of indigenous people, the Nahuatl, who have survived in present day Mexico. This has contributed to the preservation of some indigenous culture and its influence on Mexican society.
Diego Rivera Museum
Following our visit to Templo Mayor, we visited the Anahuacalli museum, where we were able to see Diego Rivera’s vast collection of Pre-Hispanic sculptures and his personal artwork. In addition to the sculptures, there was an area that Diego had designated as the place where he hoped that his and Frida’s ashes would be placed so they could rest together. Moving up through the different floors, we were also able to see Diego’s sketches and artwork, including the very famous “Man at the Crossroads” sketch, which had been painted at the Rockefeller Center (and then later destroyed). Throughout our experience, Diego’s artistry and eye for detail were definitely noticed. Throughout the exhibits, there were themes of indigenous beliefs, such as the incorporation of the four elements (water, fire, earth, air), and images of gods such as serpents and rabbits. Visiting this remarkable museum allowed us to see how Rivera’s art has been preserved even after an earthquake that ruined the building which contained it.
Basilica
Visiting The Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe was a humbling experience for our group. We observed how Catholic faith is a monumental influence to Mexico and its people. While entering the church, we noticed one prominent figure: La Virgen de Guadalupe (The Virgin of Guadalupe). This church was built in her honor, and she can be seen from any point within the building.
Teotihuacan
The Teotihuacan or “City of Gods” was yet another one of the divine sites we visited on our journey through Mexico City. It is nicknamed the “City of Gods” because the Aztecs believed that the gods created the universe at that site. Some of us had the wonderful opportunity of climbing both El Sol (The Sun) and La Luna (The Moon) pyramids. It was truly an experience of a lifetime, and it’s important to understand how Mexican culture so unique in its ability to preserve its culture.
Our second week at Andale and Gigi’s has begun!
We continue to work with many children, and have been taken aback by how much rapport we have been able to build in only one week. From the affectionate Mexican custom of giving hugs as greeting, to hearing our names being said in verbal approximations, the perseverance and the love that these children have demonstrated has definitely validated and motivated us in our pursuit of becoming Speech-Language Pathologists. We wish we could post more about our experiences at these sites but out of respect for the client’s privacy we cannot.
We also have been exposed to conducting parent interviews, using specific language when evaluating and developing treatment protocols in our Spanish class. This exposure has already started to carry over, as we are using more specific language in our interactions with the children, parents, and other professionals at our clinical sites. We are learning terminology that we had never thought about as fluent Spanish speakers. These language classes and clinical experiences are truly invaluable.
With admiration for this beautiful city,
Genesis and Jessica
