Companions: Stories from A to Z

Before South America came a short trip back to Guatemala. The family would return Bruce’s ashes to the place he had been so happy. Panajachel, near Lake Atitlan was the obvious resting place. Mine too when the time came.

RJ had found the perfect spot for releasing his ashes; a cliff above a wooded area that led down to the lake. During the rainy season, it got covered by the water beyond. RJ also let us occupy his hotel while we were there, a kind and generous gesture. 

While in Guatemala, a few of us stayed over to go to Tikal: Forrest, me, Travis and Jessica. Upon arrival, we bought our tickets and toured the ruins, staying that night in a cabin outside the park. 

The next day before the park opened, Forrest and I asked at the gate if we could come in for a bit. No, they said. We aren't open. And you will need to buy tickets for today. You can't use yesterday's tickets.

Forrest and I left and out of view found a wide-open entry into the side of the park, crossing a path used by workers. We came in like we belonged and climbed up one of the smaller pyramids. A few workmen passed by on a trail near the woods where we’d entered. Nobody bothered or questioned us. 

“Mom, I think we can travel together. Getting away from civilization brings out your inner hippie. Were you a hippie before you married Dad?” 

“Oh, definitely. I didn’t do drugs or protest the Vietnam War, but I had a rebellious streak. I always went my own way.” 

“Did Dad calm you down?”

“Quite a bit, because he was so traditional and conservative. Hair, clothes everything. He had such thick, curly hair. I wanted him to grow it out a little back in the 1970s. But of course, he wouldn’t hear of it.”

We took a picture together in front of the pyramid. Mother and son, forty-three years apart in age, a new widow weary of life and a twenty-seven-year-old grad student eager to start his life and career. I suppose we each needed an escape from our current situations. We would escape together to South America, and it would be good for both of us. 

When Forrest told me he thought we could travel together, that meant he was okay with me coming along on his summer travel plans. It was the highest compliment.