Crosses along the road .... by kymbanm
Since I moved to New Mexico over 15 years ago, I noticed an odd (to me) tradition. Crosses, plastic flowers, and other memorabilia along various stretches of the roadside seemd a constant companion as I traveled from point A to point B. I came to understand that these memorials were in honor of those who died on these roadways. I found these shrines on city streets, country roads, and larger interstates. At locations where I knew the story of the lives lost, I would take the time to say a silent prayer ..... These little bits of local tradition became roadtrip companions as well as a personal reminder for me to be cautious while behind the wheel.(Photo from the below website until I can take to time to stop and take some pics of my own)
And just today, I learned what these memorials are called:
descanso n. a roadside marker or memorial to a victim of an automobile accident.
Etymological Note: From Spanish descanso ?resting place (of a dead person),? from the verb descansar ?to (have a) rest.?