ANADESA: It’s kite time!

THE TRADITION OF THE KITES

 Guatemala is rich in culture and traditions such as the elaboration and the flight of the kites in the month of November. For the  people it is a custom that has the purpose of connecting with the souls of loved ones who have passed away. On the first day of November is when they visit us on earth. This knowledge has been transmitted over decades and generations, and so in the  different departments and municipalities the kites are made in different shapes and materials.

 When the kites rise, they are propelled by the rhythmic tugging of the string so that the loop holds them in the air for the longest time at maximum height. The people smile with joy for having lifted the kite very high. According to the grandparents, the higher the kite is, the higher the dreams of children, adolescents, young people and adults rise. Above all, from the top, messages of well-being and pleas for peace are sent from the  brothers and sisters on earth. 

 We are grateful to the ancestors for passing on this knowledge that has a lot of meaning and that  fills families with joy. We are also grateful to each one of you for listening to our stories through this newsletter and on social networks. We are sure that with your support. shown in different ways.that the communities are taking a step further in their development resulting in changes in behavior and attitudes, as well as their their participation and involvement in society. 

 Thank you for joining ANADESA to be a helping hand for the people of the rural communities of the Municipality of Santiago Atitlan. Happy Thanksgiving!

 Written by: 

Carmen Lourdes Petzey Chiviliu

Reinforcement teacher at ANADESA