A Very Busy First Day

Today was the first time we actually got to do some work. Cathy, Tonya and Norlande went to an orphanage, where we got a chance to bathe, clothe and feed children from ages from two to thirteen. We played with them and got a chance to see how they live. Seeing these children, how they reacted and connected with each other brought an amazing sensation of joy in our hearts. They shared whatever item they had with one another. For example, a little boy who had just come home from school, even in his hunger, shared his sandwich with the younger kids who had already eaten but were still hungry for more. It was priceless. The house where they live in was poorly managed. There were two bedrooms and it seemed like the children all slept in these rooms. Which didn’t look like there was enough room to sleep, more the less, breathe. We were told that the adults taking care of them slept in a corner somewhere or on the couch. There was no food whatsoever in the fridge. So, our main concern, Cathy, Tonya and I, was if the children would be provided dinner. Just watching these children and how they were excited to see us, looking at the way they lived made us wonder. How were they treating them when we weren’t around? Two of the workers who had children there were practically begging us to adopt their children. They were telling us how the manager wasn’t doing anything to make their lives and the children’s easier. They hadn’t been paid and it was for the children’s sake that they were still there. We were doubtful of his common sense and how much he really cared about these children. Visiting the orphanage was an amazing and blessed experience, which I am positive we will never forget. We of course hope to see them again tomorrow and are above all keeping them in our prayers.

Sage, Russ, Greg and Jean were on a construction site where they got to rebuild a house, which was destroyed. The house was made of stone at first, but they got to recreate it in wood. It’s a fourteen by nine foot house made for six people. One of the elderly, Haitian, male who is living there was very excited to see them. He welcomed them with a wide smile on his face and arms open. The house built up amazingly fast and it is very much complete now. They got to play with little kids that appeared out of the blue. “The three kids living there drew beautiful pictures on construction paper and instead of taking them home, they wanted us to keep them as gifts and wrote their names on the papers, so we could remember them!” said Sage when she came back from her long day at work. They brought strings and beads, so they could make bracelets. While the others were finishing up the house, Sage went behind the kitchen where she met three beautiful Haitian women. She helped them make their bracelets and before she knew it, she was surrounded by a crowd of curious children. They taught them how to play Frisbee and gave them two soccer balls. It was an incredible and unforgettable experience.

And lastly, Kelley and Amanda went with the medical team. It was a two hour drive from where we are staying. Kelley had the opportunity to meet a young man in which she believes had a strong leadership power that he is unaware of. She communicated with the others, through God’s help and words. They sung songs of worship and just enjoyed each other’s company. Amanda’s job was mostly in the clinic. She got to ask the people’s names, ages and symptoms. It was a very great experience for her and she enjoyed it very much. As we continue our wonderful journey with the Lord, we thank you for being there with us through it all and including us in your prayers. We also ask that you pray for these blessed children, for the family that is hoping to walk into their new home tomorrow and for that gifted young man.

By Norlande for Team Haiti