Visiting Mom
“La Villa” is the local name for the place of the two basilicas of the Virgin of Guadalupe in México City. The story says that Juan Diego, an Aztec man, here received from Our Lady of Guadalupe herself a cloak with an image of her that still today hangs inside of the basilica. Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe is a recognized symbol of all Catholic Mexicans and is also known as the Patroness of the Americas, Empress of Latin America, and Protectress of Unborn Children. Way past all this, many consider her a mother, in every sense of the word. Laura Sánchez shared with us her experiences.
Going to a Villa was a must at least once a year for her, she’d go with her grandmother to the cemetery to dust gravestones and bring flowers to their departed loved ones. Then they’d go to la Villa to express gratitude about the good in their lives and in their families. They’d pray for those that are sick, economical needs, but above all it was a visit, like visiting their mom. She says, “Whoever knows a mother’s love, knows that she is always with you. Personally, la Virgen de Guadalupe has manifested her miracles, love, and solace.” She mentions always having her in her thoughts, “she has walked with me in the biggest moments of my life, the most beautiful and the most difficult as well.”
Another important factor in her faith is praying the rosary, she says it allows her to enter a state of profound spirituality, a sort of trance where this mantra allows her to communicate with Our Lady and she listens. “When I pray, I put forth all my energy into a positive longing.” This happens whether she’s getting on a plane, a loved one is sick, during her pregnancy, giving thanks for the everyday goodness, whatever it may be.
While visiting her in churches is a huge part of her faith, Laura maintains another connection with Our Lady in her garden. “In my garden I have a yellow rose bush that blooms with the most gorgeous roses every December.” During this month, (which is usually dedicated to Our Lady since she is celebrated on the 12th of December) she cuts the roses and places them in front of an image of Our Lady she keeps in her home. She has brought this same image with her through each of her numerous moves and tries to always adorn her with fresh flowers. “It’s how I show her my love
6