Amelia

(This post is inspired by Jason Evans of "The Clarity of Night." I hope he likes it!)

In Havana, Cuba there is a giant graveyard that existed prior to the revolution. This cemetary is filled with extravagant homages to the dead. Along with these monuments go many stories. Here is one:

Amelia was buried with her child after they both died in childbirth. 15 years later, the bodies were dug up. The contents of her casket revealed a surprise. The infant, which had been buried on her mother's leg (as this was the tradition) was now being held in her mother's arms. This movement was dubbed "a miracle" and Amelia began to be regarded similarly to a saint.

Now, people visit her grave and ask for aid in sickness and other trials. These believers walk forward, knock on the gravestones to "wake" Amelia and then kiss, hug, give donations or flowers in exchange for their requests. No one ever turns and walks away though. It is said that one should never turn his back on a woman he loves, thus people are seen backing away instead.