Descanos, or roadside memorials, are placed to mark the place where someone died suddenly and unexpectedly. In a way, all death feels unexpected even though we know it is inevitable. Something about certain abrupt passings compels loved ones to mark the spot where someone left us.
Often there is a cross and sometimes there are flowers, stuffed animals, and letters. Some have the persons name and some are unnamed.
The memorials are very personal, but there is a public aspect as well. It is a reminder that our loved ones are always with us, to cherish our people every day, and to drive a little slower and pay a little more attention driving down the road.
