Seeing the care and creativity families put into their ofrendas for Dia de los Muertos in Mexico City made me wonder what my own altar would include when I’m gone. The question felt surprisingly difficult: despite having many hobbies, friends and interests, I couldn’t immediately pick the objects that would best represent my life.
That uncertainty led me to reflect on how well the people around us truly know us — and how well we know ourselves. For a while I worried that I didn’t have a fixed identity, that I was still in a phase of self-discovery with tastes and priorities that change frequently.
Gradually I realised that when people describe me, they usually talk about my personality rather than specific possessions or hobbies. I am social, curious about other people’s lives (which explains why I enjoy reading blogs), and I enjoy new challenges. I’ve tried many activities and fads over the years — sports, charity events, different hobbies — but few things have stuck long enough to become defining. I get bored easily and often move on to the next thing, which makes it hard to name a few physical items that would capture my life forever.
So instead I’ll list the things that feel most representative of who I am right now. This list reflects my present self; it may change in five, ten or twenty years, but for now these items sum up the person I am at this moment.
- A pair of headphones — I’m happiest listening to music, sometimes singing along. Music is a big part of my daily life and mood.
- A bottle of vodka — It’s my favourite drink. I’ll try anything, but vodka with lime and soda is my go-to; even the hangovers are nostalgic.
- A fictional novel and a guidebook — I love reading and I love travel. Both escape and exploration matter to me.
- Food — Saying I “love food” is an understatement. I plan meals, anticipate good food and my day can be made or ruined by what I eat. Any tasty dish, cake or chocolate would be welcome on an ofrenda; if I had a preference, fish and chips, curry, Chinese or pasta would be perfect.
- A ticket stub from a comedy gig — I adore comedy. Making people laugh and laughing with others is a central joy. Live comedy and films that make me belly laugh are among my favourite experiences.
- DVDs — I enjoy watching movies and the memories attached to them.
- A Christmas bauble — Christmas is my favourite time of year; a bauble would represent that festive love.
What surprises me is how different this list would have looked five years ago — and I love that change. It’s a reminder that identity can be fluid and that the things that matter most evolve with time.
Below are some of the ofrendas we encountered while wandering through Mexico City, where the art of honouring the dead has been perfected over generations. These altars showcase the variety, care and personal touches families bring to remembering loved ones.