This book is the result of the incredible generosity of the people of Tecpán, Guatemala.I refrain from thanking particular individuals here in the interest of protecting anonymity, but I am deeply indebted to the dozens of people who shared their lives with me and made me feel at home in Tecpán and to the many who continue to enrich my life with their friendship.People in various other cities and towns throughout Guatemala contributed their stories to this research as well.I am grateful to Claudia, Marvin, Ana, and Silvia, who worked with me as research assistants and, in many ways, made the fi eldwork possible.I also thank Te Ix'ey, Lajuj B'atz, and the other teachers and mentors at