¡Viva México!

Sam and I waiting for the Independence Day parade to start.

¡Felices fiestas patrias, que viva México! Today is Mexico’s Independence Day, and it is also a special year commemorating the 200th anniversary of the founding of the Heroico Colegio Militar, Mexico’s premier military academy. Sam and I spent the afternoon watching the military parade process down Calle Reforma, a main avenue just a few blocks from our apartment. The impressive display lasted for several hours and included units from all branches of the military, mounted cavalry, numerous armored vehicles, and even a canine unit and falcons.

People in traditional Mexican outfits mounted on horses - one of my favorite parts of the parade!

This was definitely a “pinch myself” moment, and my eyes filled with tears several times. I feel immensely grateful for the opportunity not only to study Mexican music, but to be simultaneously immersed in the exquisite culture this music is rooted in. I get to speak the language, eat the food, see the sights, and interact with the people every day for a school year. What a gift!

I won’t pretend it has all been a breeze. I got food poisoning this week, and there have been frustrating delays with my immigration paperwork. But I can’t wish away the frustrations without wishing away the entire experience. So cheers to soaking it all in!

This blog (www.melissaterrallpiano.com/blog) is not an official site of the Fulbright Program or the U.S. Department of State.  The views expressed on this site are entirely those of its author and do not represent the views of the Fulbright Program, the U.S. Department of State, or any of its partner organizations.