History Museum

On my walk back to the hotel the other day, I noticed something that looked like a part. I had to investigate to see what it was. As I entered this massive area, I realized it was more than a park; it was a museum, and it was part of the University of Leon.

It was “Mueso De Arte e Historia de Guanajuato” Art and History Museum of Guanajuato. It was a gem tucked away. As you entered the landscaping you realized it was a little more than a park. Its modern architecture pulls you into the space, inviting you to see more. I was so excited that I wanted to delve in right away. But this was something I needed to prepare for. It would make for a great photo session and an opportunity to learn about Mexico. I had to put this one on hold until tomorrow.

The next morning I got up with intent on my mind. I was going to visit a museum in another country. I would get to see how they viewed their county and its history. I prepared some coffee. I used the bottled water the hotel supplied me with. I wasn’t taking any chances on drinking the tap water. I showered and and got dressed. I decided I needed to go to the market and pick up a few things. The market was only two blocks away, All I needed was some good coffee, some fruit for eating, and smoothies. I bought a portable blender/smoothie maker online I was dying to try it out. My thought was I could buy fruit and juice and make my smoothies on the go.

After arriving at the market, I got a cart and started shopping. I thought I would walk in this market full of fresh fruits and veggies. But to my surprise, it was like walking in a COCSO’s everything in bulk. As I made my way to the fruit and vegetable section I was kind of disappointed it wasn’t much of a variety as I had expected. But I made do with the things I could find.

I was able to get some bananas, blueberries, apples, juices, and bread but no cheese, extra sharp cheddar cheese that is. The only American cheese they had was Kraft singles slices and that’s not really cheese. But tons of other types of cheese. Unfortunately, my cheese pallet is not that extensive yet. Still a work in progress.

I got to the counter and watched the register because I could get a good idea of how much things cost in Mexico, plus I could see the total on the register. And pretend I knew what the clerk was saying when she told me the total, pretty clever, not really. But as I’m standing here I realize that there are no plastic bags. So I had to ask if they had any bags or boxes I could carry my groceries in. The clerk pointed to some cloth bags for sale, so I purchased to voweled to carry it everywhere I went. I returned to the hotel, put my groceries away, and made a smoothie.

Now it was time for me to pack my camera and gear and get on the road. I wanted to spend as much time as I could visiting this museum. It was about a 20-minute walk to the Art and History Museum of Guanajuato. I stood at the entrance of the Museum and was taken by the size of it. I walked down one side and up the other bringing you back up on the other side. Each section having something different to offer.

I remember when Mexico fought for its freedom to become a democratic country. And they managed to obtain it and keep it. However, we only remember the negative aspects of something or someone we are not familiar with. No matter how much time passes.

During my walks I would see an open door which is always an invitation to come in, then I see this man in a uniform and I hesitate to enter. Can’t tell you how many missed opportunities got away. I Like the way they used open spaces. Even though this city is the 5th largest city. It still manages to make its public spaces feel roomy and light. I was surprised that more people weren’t enjoying this space. But in all fairness, a High School Football (soccer) championship was going on.

As I continued my walk up the other side of the grounds, I noticed in the distance, a sculpture. As I ventured closer I saw this area was filled with sculptures of various materials and styles. Of course, I had to get up close and personal, I got to see how other cultures find what is relevant to them in art. The first piece I came in contact with was by Yvonne Domerge, Manadla de Unidaden Armonia 2007. The second piece that caught my attention was by Jorge Marin, El Tiempo 2010

This Bronze sculpture reminded me of something you find on top of Philadephia’s City Hall (Side Note: Philadelphia City Hall had over 50 stone statues placed in various places of the building. It became a hazard because these stone pieces of art would shift, crack and pieces would fall below, so they were removed and placed in various parts of Fairmount Park.)

It made me think, ‘If I could fly”, metaphorically speaking, but I guess I did because here I am in Mexico. The history of Mexico has a rich and vibrant culture. It includes its conquers, their religion and, the Mexican culture all wrapped up in one.

I was invited to view the historical exhibit, for free. I was astonished at how much we as African-Americans have in common not only with Mexican culture but with people of color all over the world. It reminds me, that what we fail to understand will continue to divide and conquer us. Upon entering the Museum I noticed a group of Greek Statues, by no means am I a historian but I found it odd. But as a most museum, they circulate their exhibits to various museums in the world.

It saddens me that a group of people decided that their way was the best way of doing things, and they forced that belief on the whole world. As a society, we will never know what contributions people would have made to the world. I continued with my tour and the information that was provided.

Over 85% of Mexicans are Catholic, It is funny when you are in the States you don’t think much about the Catholic Religion, because in the States religion is divided into many denominations. But when you travel to Mexico, Latin America, and other Spanish-speaking countries you begin to understand why this Religion has so many followers and power.

While Im watching reading and learning, it dawned on me that Leon has a very strong Spanish presence. I don’t mean the language. The people who work in high places are very Mestizo, and the manual laborers are Indigenous people. That was the feeling that was so familiar to me. In the States, it’s very easy to recognize it. It’s as simple as black and white (a little pun there). If funny the more things change the more they stay the same.

As I travel this journey one thing that comes to mind, is a lot of things I have encountered in my life were distractions. For me is about finding my center, traveling, learning, and understanding what it means to me and for me. By nature of the universe, you will always be presented with the opportunity to help and make a difference in someone’s life. But, before any of that can happen you have to make a difference in your own life first. So, Stay focused and stay centered.

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