The closest definition I can come up with for "padrino" would be
"godfather" or "godmother". The only thing is that there are so many things in
Mexico that cannot be defined because of its 4 dimensional cultural attributes.
In this case, to be a padrino of something or someone can easily snowball and
become its own monster. As Martha Stewart would say, "It's a good thing." It is
always an honor to be asked to be a padrino, and it also allows us, as
foreigners, to know where we stand in people's minds and attitudes towards us.
One can be asked to be a padrino of a wedding cake, a wedding dress, the rings,
the pinata, the food for a huge event, etc.... The list could go on.
Recently, Jenell and I were asked to be "padrinos de generacion"
(god parents of the 6th grade graduating class). We were thrilled! Of course, we
needed to go to the experts to find out what to do and what was appropriate. As
padrinos we were to buy inexpensive gifts for 37 graduates, and we were to sit
at the head table with the village mayor and other important leaders of the
village and school. What an honor!!
Unfortunately, the date of the graduation fell on July 4th. We
were in Texas during that day. We fulfilled our obligation as best we could. We
bought school supplies for each and every one; a "suttle" hint to continue their
education, which many do not do. We also included a photo frame or photo album
because each student has their own, individual padrino, and they would need a
place to put their favorite photos of them with their padrinos. As you can see
there can be several layers of padrinos for one event. This assures that all the
basis are covered, and they get more gifts.
Charlie and Sharon representing us at
graduation:
note our gifts on the table
Luckily, Charlie and Sharon are in Angahuan. They were able to
represent us in our absence. Before leaving, the parents of the students told me
that, upon our return, they wanted to host a party to honor us thank us for
being their padrinos. We are so excited that God has given us such an amount of
favor that people feel comfortable to include us in on important events in the
village.
Cultural dances are very common at
graduations
Let me mention real quick that one can be asked to be the
padrino of tequila - one we quickly and nicely reject. Yes, even at a 6th grade
graduation!?!