We've endured a lot of persecution, not just from Anglos, but from Hispanics who think we're different and strange. It began when we left the safety of the family home and went off to school. We got teased on the playground. During Easter, kids threw rocks at us. And all because we choose to experience Christ's suffering in a more intimate and personal way.
Penitentes only wish to go through Holy Week undisturbed.
Holy Week for them is a constant exercise of prayer. A generous smile rumpled her smooth face. She clutched a batch of manzanilla and explained to Barbara and me how to brew it into a refreshing tea. Trinidad's grandmother was a curandera, and she herself was well-versed in local remedios. People came for miles to talk to my grandmother.