05/15/2010

Sick today.  As we traveled from Gros Morne to Barasa, my stomach was rumbling and my spirits were plummeting.  I realized that my foul mood and focus on my upset stomach were immature.  I cannot imagine being truly sick or injured in these conditions.  With all the heat, smell, dust, & potholes, I was miserable.  Although I can't say I have lived it, I can see how everything would be complicated by the conditions.  As if living in a tent city weren't enough, some people do so with missing limbs, life-threatening illnesses, and infants to care for.  So tough...

We arrived at Barasa tonight & it is already a completely different experiences.  The people here were so happy to see us.  I feel so much more immersed in the culture.  As I write, a band of Haitians sings outside the door.  What a beautiful song.  I look forward to building real relationships with the people here.  I was a little apprehensive about the apparent lack of plans for our days, but now that we have arrives, I am excited for some free time to just spend in fellowship with the people.  Excited also for the market tomorrow  Off to bed to sleep off the rest of this upset stomach.

Oh! One more thing.  We got to see the corn mill today that Haiti Connection sponsored a few years back.  It was up & running and Roy says that it is completely self-sufficient.  It's so amazing to see that our efforts really do foster sustainable, long-term change.

Lord, grant me comfort...