March 5, 2018 (Day 1)
Hey Everyone! What a day, it has been. I am so excited to see what's in store for the rest of this week. I flew in from Colorado last night and was able to stay with Lois' family (who is amazing I must add). This morning we traveled to the Minneapolis airport, and were able to meet Mubeenah, Carissa, and Hannah. We then flew to Atlanta and met up with Laura, Olivia, and Kim. From there we all made our way to Haiti.
When we walked out of the airport we were greeted by some of the employees from Healing Haiti. They drove us on the bus back to where we were staying. Instantly, we were greeted by three adorable puppies and a few older dogs. The setting is so pretty. We are on the top floor of the building, where you can see a hotel from a distance, pink flowers decorate the buildings, and local Haitian children are playing soccer. We scarfed down tacos for dinner and then had our devotional. It's been a really busy day full of traveling, but I can't wait to see what tomorrow holds!
xoxo- Annie
March 6, 2018 (Day 2)
Today was filled with happiness, inspiration, and awe. We were able to travel to Grace Village and receive a tour. It has been described as inspirational for how developed, and beautiful the village and the people in it were! The concept of giving the newest and greatest technology to the students instead of the hand-me-downs of others is a better way to see "charity." But it is not outside charity that Grace Village is looking for, but instead the opportunity to allow Haitians to flourish and help develop the country through investments in Haiti's economy. They go to local business to buy medicines, and other supplies, while also hiring Haitians to do the development work instead of outsourcing. The way to healthy, sustainable growth is through the development of the individual, which translates to the family, and finally the community. Their bakery follows the same mindset (and smells INCREDIBLE!) Plus on our tour of the bakery we had the best iced coffee I have ever tasted!
We also were given the opportunity to visit with 4 of the elders, deliver them a meal, and show them some love. I was overwhelmed with happiness during this time because of how welcoming and loving they were during this time of vulnerability. The elders faith was inspirational, which we saw through their demeanor and prayer requests. Their main requests revolved around growing in their own walk in faith, or for their families faith. They lit up as we washed and massaged their feet, legs, arms, and hands. It is beautiful to see how our bodies have such a reaction to a simple touch, and the deeper sense of love you feel. These women are stronger than anyone I have encountered before and have provided for me a lasting image of what it means to be rooted in God in all things.
It has been a humbling day for all of us here. It is great to see how community is so prevalent and powerful in Haiti. I am excited to see what tomorrow will be able to teach me!
- Laura
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