Sunday Perspective
I can write all day, show video and pictures of our past few days and I feel that I would not give justice to what is occurring here in Haiti. The Haitian people that we’ve engaged in the church and in clinics have been very grateful, very open and hospitable. They’ve done their best to make us feel welcome.
Entering the Church on Sunday gave me a feeling of home, even if just for a moment. Of course I didn’t speak the language, but the songs I knew; the mothers trying to be patient with their little ones was familiar and the spirit of the church-family resonated. The time after the service, which was delivered in French by Pastor Earnest, stirred them. As a side bar; I am now ready to implement at least one Haitian custom in the church – a church usher walks about shaking the head of those who nod off – that I like! I want that job! (although don’t count out the fact that I may be the one sleeping)
Walking Through The Streets
After our church service, we began walking the courtyard in the Delmar area, one that is serviced by the local church. We saw “tents”, which were little more than pieces of fabric held together by any materials available and fastened to four sticks. Most were about 6×6 and were considered their housing. There was an estimated 1000 people living in these shelters, in what equated to be about a one,maybe two city block section.
As we walked the children unabashedly ran to us and took our hands, as some sort of Creole- speaking-two-foot-talk-guide, who we could not understand. Regardless of our language barrier, these children told a story. A story that I wish I could do justice.
We did our best to make it to many homes to sing, pray and talk with members of the community. To you, reading in America, that seems perhaps benign. To them, having pastors and friends visit them and spend time with them seemed to be a delight.
Returning to the Compound
On the way back, after a quick introduction and planning session at the clinic/church a huge storm hit. Our travel home was… indescribable, but I’ll do my best. With the strong rains, and insane traffic, our tap-tap did it’s best to snake through the crowded, chaotic street. As it did Dr. Mandall and I noticed that the streets became rivers and the lack of drainage made a tidal wave of trash and debris fighting against our transport. The thought of the health risks gave a bit more clarity to the medical issues at hand. Since the Earthquake much of the debris and trash has simply been piled along the city streets.
Upon arriving back to our camp, we were soaking wet, sun burnt and grateful… very, very grateful to be able to serve.
By the way, we do have journalist with us from the Free Lance Star. Amy Umble, is doing a great job of telling the story.
