Aprons and Sacred Corn

Our towels inspired us to make full aprons from the same striped fabric. On the bib of the apron we have embroidered an ear of corn. Corn is sacred for us Maya -- our creation story tells us that we are made of corn. And of course, corn is the basis of our diet, made into tortillas or tamales or delicious warm drinks called atol.

The growing of corn -- "the milpa" sets the rhythm of our living during the year. Most of us grow our own corn to eat, though sadly some are too poor to own land, and have to buy their corn with their scarce resources. We continue to follow the practice of our ancestors planting beans and squash in amongst our corn. Since corn and the earth are sacred, when we plant the corn we thank Mother Earth for letting us grow the corn.

Growing our corn even changes the appearance of our town. In January and February everything is dry and brown. After the corn has been planted in April or May (depending on the cycle of the moon) little by little the growing corn changes everything to green, until August or September when the cornstalks hide our houses except for the roofs peeking out.