"The Aztec dance is meditation in motion. It brings the dancers into a meditative state, with the repetitive rhythm and movement, channeling energy to the gods. It represents the connection between man and god, of body and soul, and is a form of prayer and communication."
Cecile and I with our friends and neighbors Susan and Nelson Bye, Sarah and Bill Rothenberg, and Jane and Murray Cook reserved a table for Fiesta Mexicana at the Clubhouse at Rinconada Hills in Los Gatos, CA. The event featured fresh, delicious gourmet-style Mexican cuisine prepared by assistant manager, Ray Ramiriz. The room was colorfully decorated. Beer, wine, and Margaritas were served with appetizers followed by an authentic spiritual Indigenous Aztec dance performance by Esplendor Azteca—Xipe Totec. Most of the dancers are from Mexico City. The group is dedicated to promoting the traditions handed down from their ancestors. It is a form of prayer, that involves
dancing and singing. Dancers, who move as one in a circle, wear angle rattles known as chacayotes, and some rattles in their hands. Before dancing begins, one dancer uses the ceremonial copal incense burner (resin from tree sap) to clear bad energy. They ask permission from the elements and the four directions. Moreover they ask the universe for permission to touch the Earth. Two of the elders stood by tall Aztec drums known as huehuetl that is made from wood and animal skin. As the drum beat picks up and builds, the formation. These magical dance performances is another way for Mexican Americans to reconnect with their history and culture.
Dinner was served buffet-style and strawberry shortcake was served for dessert, after the dance performance. Thanks to the many volunteers like Dee Blumenthal, Kathy Ramos, manager, Mike Yarman, and his assistant manager, Ray Ramiriz, this was a fabulous evening. I and many others had the opportunity to speak and take photos with the dancers. It reminded me of the time I spent in retreat with others in Mexico with world renowned shaman, Brant Secunda, the founder of the Dance of the Deer Foundation. I got to experience ancient teachings and rituals, and sacred dances, including the “Dance of the Deer,” after which his foundation is named.
