I’ve just returned to Haiti from two weeks in the U.S. It was different this time. I had traveled with my sweetie, Papoush, so maybe I didn’t miss my home in Haiti as much as I usually do. Or maybe after two years living here, coming home feels more normal now, not quite as over-the-moon exciting.
But once in the vehicle, bumping along on the road to my house, I remembered (again!) why I am so attached to this country.
I saw my neighbors living out there days as they do. Walking back and forth from market. Young fathers tenderly holding babies. Market women catching a quick nap between customers. Children hollering at one another across the busy streets.
And in their faces I saw the quiet desperation. Hard times mean scrambling every day — for another sale from their curbside market, for a few gourdes to buy rice and beans, for a bit of shade to escape the heat and humidity.
But also — that other bit you always can find in the face of a Haitian.
Courage.
It’s the fierce power of persistence. It’s what keeps my neighbors going. Every minute. Every day.
I admire my neighbors. And I must become more fierce to help them make the lives better.
I must find the courage to stay out of my comfort zones I so easily can find when they cannot.
Our Joining Hands network here will be examining what we need to do to meet our goals over the next few years. While we wait out the Election season that no doubt will bring more disorder, but hopefully will bring new hope, we ask for your prayers that we evaluate and plan for our network’s next steps.
We covet your prayers. And we appreciate all your support.
More to come!
A journey across Haiti 
I enjoyed seeing your posts while you were “home” in the states, and saddened that our paths didn’t cross in Staunton. I know you were busy with friends and family and showing your other “home” to your Papoush. May God continue to bless the work that you are doing and the people you are helping, in a country that I hope to one day see.
Thanks so much, Lee! Unfortunately we didn’t make a lot of stops — but we will another time! I am grateful for your love and support! And yes! Come to Haiti!
Cindy, I found your blog after looking at the missions page on the Grace Covenant site…my friend, Michelle, is Pastor Bobby’s wife. I just wanted to say “kudos” for the work you are doing. I, too, have a penchant for writing and admire your descriptions of life in Haiti. I’ve been twice and am trying to figure out how I might improve upon the work I’ve done there with my “Little French Books” project. I hope to return soon to support education and literacy in Lascahobas and beyond. Looking forward to reading more of your posts!
Thanks so much for your note, Jennifer. Let me know more about your “Little French Books” project. Education and literacy are top priorities for World Mission. Many blessings to you and your work.