ESPACIO SAGRADO
By Buggsy Malone
As I kneel on both knees and take in the meditative sounds of the drums at my back, I know I am in a sacred space of ancestral tradition and ceremony. The scent of burning wood from the fire and sage from around the altar fill my nostrils, transporting me to a place of relaxation and peace. Soothing music from the clay flutes and other instruments, along with the rhythmic shaking sounds from the ayoyotes, has my spirit traveling to another time and place. As a Filipino, I am aware these are not exactly my traditional ways. However, I am easily able to connect with my Mexica brothers and sisters in their time of dance and prayer during the Annual Mexica New Year Ceremony.
I was born in Macon, Georgia and adopted at birth by a loving white couple. As my father was in the military, we traveled the world. My schooling started with kindergarten in Thailand where I can vividly remember the bright orange clothing/robes of the monks. Junior high and high school time took place in Europe between Holland, Germany, and then graduating in England. A couple of years after graduation, I joined the U.S. Army and then the U.S. Marine Corps where I honorably served for thirteen years. During my service time, I was able to enjoy more of this beautiful planet as I was stationed in Hawaii and Japan. Though there are many cherished memories from this time, I feel the biggest asset I gained over the years is the respect of others and their cultures. Our unique differences are what binds us together.
