Day 7: Preparing to Leave

Today was our last day of work in Haiti.  As I began this adventure, I had no specific expectations and determined to appreciate each activity as its own remarkable event.  As I look back on it, I will take away the memory of some truly remarkable people.

The work that Eddie and Nixon are doing in the community has been detailed by others in this blog.  I have come  to think of them, and the team at Sadhana Forest, Santhonax and Reverend Eduane as community heroes.  Each has channeled their dreams and their passsions toward improving the quality of life in Anse a Pitre and Parc Cadot.  They are the type of people who could be builders anywhere;  they chose to do it here.

Eddie’s internet café will be a game changer for learners of all ages in Anse a Ptire.  Nixon has brought his agricultural expertise to the community in Parc Cadot and for me, a highlight of our work experience was the day that the Sadhana Forest and BUMC teams together planted 30 trees in the refugee settlement and shared some time with the children at the school. Nixon was a true friend to our team; in addition to sharing his knowledge he helped us coordinate transportation and border crossings.  Santhonax is one of those wonderful people whose energy radiates and energizes others.  We learned that he helps out with anyone who asks, and it was inspiring for me to see the way he connected with the children at Parc Cadot. Under Reverend Eduane’s love and care I have hope that conditions will continue to improve at the settlement.

When I think of these leaders, I think I understand what Rev. Kara was referring to when she talked about ‘catalysts’.   

I was privileged to share this adventure with a wonderful team from BUMC.  We shared some good work, a lot of song and laughter, and a few tears as we said goodbye to our new friends. I am grateful to have been part of this.

I’m feeling energized by the example set by our new friends.  I hope that I can figure out how to channel that energy into supporting their efforts in the future.
-Mike