Panda at Zona Arqueológica Izapa (Original)

Panda was fascinated to visit the ancient Mayan ruins and see where the Mayans once lived. The stone structures had stood for centuries, and Panda knew there were stories they would tell if they could speak. If we are quiet enough, perhaps they can.

Getting to the ruins was an adventure of its own. Instead of joining a cruise ship excursion, we hired a private cab. Cruise ships had only recently started visiting Chiapas, and the organized tours were still limited and not particularly well organized. The private trip gave Panda more time to explore and take in the surroundings.

We arrived well before the excursion groups. For a while, we had the ruins almost entirely to ourselves. Later, the tour buses arrived, filling the ancient site with a burst of tourist energy. Before long, they all piled back onto their buses and departed, leaving us once again with the peace and solitude of the ruins.

During the visit, Panda spent time admiring the ancient structures, but there was another reason this stop felt important. A certain special someone back home was not feeling well, and Panda wished there was something she could do to help. Standing among the ancient stones on the day of the full moon, Panda climbed atop a stela and sent thoughts of healing, comfort, and encouragement across the miles.

Whether it was Mayan energy, moonlight, friendship, or simply good wishes, Panda hoped some of that positive energy would find its way to its destination.

The message was received with a heart, which made Panda smile.

After the adventure, we picked up several other cruise passengers and helped them return to the ship. As the ruins disappeared into the distance, Panda carried with her memories of an ancient civilization, a beautiful day of exploration, and the hope that the healing thoughts had reached where they were needed most.