Each altar no matter the size,complexity or simplicity tells a unique story. This one in particular moved me the most. I lost my father close to 20 years now and I still feel his presence in the way of "Pennies from heaven". It never fails when I may be short on cash or I do not have enough change in my pocket. Pennies,dimes,bills and an occasional $20.00 is found on the street. This piece at the SOMA art gallery is titled: Healing Embrace By Martha Rodriquez For my father Jacob(Jake) Rodriquez One month before my diagnosis of Leukemia in October 2010. I felt a presence of my father. It was odd that after 9 years of being gone, he suddenly returned to me. The feeling of his presence came in the form of sharing the same space. I went about doing my artwork and tasks and took him with me. As October turned to November and Dia de los Muertos came around, the feeling sensation of my Dad being near turned to an embrace. I felt his arms around me. It was a feeling of security, safeness and calm. Along with that security came fear whin I began experiencieng exterme fatigue. At the end of November, I ended up in the E. R at UCSF after having blood work done showing extremely low blood counts. I was admitted to UCSF and diagonosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia(ALL). During my eight month stay in the hospital. I could see the face of my father, smiling. He had that way of talking to everyone, putting them at east and making them his friend. He was with me in the hospital. He made me feel happy, even despite my diagnosis. He made me feel safe. he gave me the strength to see that I would survive this diagnosis. Well I did survive. I have been in remission for twenty months. My Dad helped me through this diffuclt journey. In addition, he taught me a lesson on life and living. As much as it sounds like a cliche, life is truly a gift. Each day that you have to live is a wonder. Each day has a special moment. Hang on to it. Remember it. If there are no special moments, know that you have the next day to start over and to experience the joy in that day and in living Thank-you Dad. Healing Embrace is for you. Please note photographing is allowed at this exhibit.