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| Alondra (Notice the cakes in the heart behind her |
When a teacher develops relationships with students,
opportunities to be witness important events in students’ lives come along. I
was there four years ago when Jordan Kippur became a man according to Jewish
Law. And last night, I was there to celebrate Alondra Peralta turning 15 and
making the transition from child to woman according to Mexican tradition. I
feel honored to have been invited to both of these special events. Unfortunately,
I missed Alondra’s mass, but I was there for the celebration with food and
dance.
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| Celia, Alondra, Me, Daisy |
Walking in, I had no idea what to expect as this was
the first quinceanera. When Patti and
I walked in, there were not many people there yet. We didn’t recognize anyone.
And then the princess appeared followed by her ladies in waiting. The three
girls transformed from the 8th graders I saw in the halls all year.
I was welcomed with hugs. We took pictures and chatted for a bit before Patti
and I found a table. Within no time, we were being served dinner. I am not sure
what it was, but it was DELICIOUS! Even though Alondra was the princess, she
was a gracious hostess who wanted to be sure I wanted for nothing. I asked her
what happened during the celebration. “It’s like a wedding reception except I
don’t have a groom.”
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| One of the dances. |
Slowly the dance hall began to fill up. Children ran
and played as they waited for the dancing. Some of the brave ones took a quick
taste of the icing on the cakes. And then it was time for the dancing. Alondra,
Celia, Daisy, and her other ladies in waiting had been practicing the dances for
the last six months. Even though I didn’t understand any of the introductions
or explanations of the dance (should have paid better attention in Spanish
class), the language of dance came through loud and clear. It was beautiful. What
an honor to be a part of such an important day in Alondra’s life!
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