Returning to the image of a person with outstretched hands, its looping structure symbolizes that everything is done within and for the benefit of the community. There are no borders, blurring lines of distinction between individuals and families. We are an extended family, and together the community raises and educates its children. Herein lies another way that Burkina s culture differs from that in the west. A child s father is not only his biological parent he may also be an uncle or cousin.
Parenthood applies to anyone who cares for a child.
A couple without biological children of their own accept the responsibility of caring for others. As the walls of huts are extended into compounds, so the family circle is extended. The circle also regulates social events such as traditional dances or storytelling. One dance in particular the kiegba illustrates this dynamic. Women gather in a circle while two of them dance together in the middle.