R.I.P.

It was "El dia de la Muerte", the Day of the Dead. The day after "All Hallows Eve" or Halloween. I was in Republica de Panama traveling along the Pan American Highway when a storm began to form and approach. It looked like it was going to be a big one. I glanced off to my right and spotted a small cemetery. It is the custom in Latin American countries to gather the families of "dearly departed" and go to cemetery to pay respects. "People erect magical realist altars which symbolize the loving dialogue between death and life. The authenticity of this dialogue is represented through the Ofrenda, an offering made to deceased loved ones of food, yellow marigolds, water, colored-paper designs, candles, incense and "petate". Other items such as sugar skulls, bread, liquors, cigarettes, photographs, money, toys, saints, and other gifts, which individuals have cherished during their lifetime, find their place in the Ofrenda". I really like this shot. It captured the moment. Hope you enjoy.