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Coatl is a Nahuatl word (Aztec language) meaning serpent. El Coatl or the Big Serpent was a mythological creature of the tradition and culture of rural Mexico, related with legends of richness, wisdom and fear. In the Aztec culture the serpent offers fertility, abundance and richness, but always with an undeniable condition: the tireless work.

The work of someone that does not give up regardless of the obstacles faced, making use of his/her own tenacity and logical ability.

There is also an aggressive side of the serpent, but instead of having a suicidal or crazy nature, it is associated to heroism, combativeness and the great feeling of uncertainty and risk taking.

*Photo by Fabrice Demoulin, courtesy of Doctors of the World Portugal.