Since I’ve been back, I’ve been somewhat disturbed because there has been a lot of loud popping sounds outside. At first I thought it was gunfire but the Sisters assured me it was only a game. I thought what kind of game exactly? Well after a month of curiousity, I became partially satiated. The noise comes from boys whipping the ground with a rope. I thought maybe Indiana Jones finally made his way to Haiti or some new Jackie Chan move (the boys here love Jackie Chan). On Sunday when the neighborhood kids come, they were all tranquilly stationed for various activities. When suddenly I hear screams from outside, large pops, and then all kids start running to the gate. I have no idea what is happening but Steevenson, a man who comes to help on Sunday, runs to the gate to try and close it and screams for Sr Gracitane. Sr Gracitane comes running, closes the barrier and we attempt to round the kids back. I see Sr Graciane smiling and peering outside from the gate. I ask her what is happening outside and what is all the noise? It was a person whipping a rope with a mask on. Hmm that’s weird. She said oh it’s nothing it’s for mardi gras. The boys mask themselves and chase after people with whips (they don’t actually whip people though). So that explains the whips. Although I would think whips would be more appropriate for the following season of Lent.
Sr. Danielle said the whips are something you find more in the countryside. in the city, people prepare masks (and scary ones too)
A Little Seed Makes a Big Tree 