A carnival passed through El Progreso, bringing the excitement of cotton candy, popcorn, and rides, and the boys of Pronino were lucky enough to spend an evening there. The excitement of an outing is always an entertaining sight; as the boys rush around to get ready, put on their best clothes and shine up their shoes, not to mention the hair gel so they really look sharp. I think they enjoy these outings much more than any other child would. They are given the chance to forget about their pasts or the absence of so much in their lives, and to run around having fun as a normal child should.
Arriving at the carnival was a wonderful sight. The boys ran off in groups, calling out to each other, trying to decide which ride to choose first. Its easy to forget what a rush it is as a child, the thrill of being in the middle of all those rides and excitement. It was clear on their faces as they ran by, shouting to make sure all staff (potentially the parental figures watching over them), were looking as they rode the ferris wheel or the small roller coaster. Even more exciting was seeing them get off of the ride, as they suddenly realized the potential to choose another. The excitement took over and they were running again, as if there might not be enough time for the next ride. It began to rain and even that couldn’t slow them down, as they seemed determined to enjoy this trip out no matter how bad the weather got. Even the bus ride back to the mountain held its excitement, all the boys still full of energy and chatting about which ride was the best.
These are some of the best days for the kids, spending time enjoying life in the carefree way that children do. And they have missed out on it for so long, it seems they deserve a little extra joy and fun, and that simple opportunity to just be a kid.
