From the moment we woke up, we knew that our schedule could change at any moment, but that no matter what the day brought, we'd be ready for it. We were so excited to be able to walk to the market today and get a taste of some local artistry and economy. Getting to this 'pop-up' shop meant climbing up two stories to a wide open space filled with metal work, paintings, jewelry, stone work and more. My favorite part was the stunning panoramic view of Delmas and the cool breeze that came with it.
The people explained their work, how it was made, and gave credit to the artists who helped design and create it all. The joy was contagious and one gentleman even gave a free gift to one of our team members because it wasn't 'perfect' but that simple gesture was the most perfect way to start our day. Times are tough here mostly because of the lack of predictability. Many people don't know when they'll be able to fill their gas tanks, so they stay home. Or they get paid, but then the banks are closed, so they can't get their money. And while shopping might not seem like a mission, one man thanked us and said that because of our purchases his family would eat tonight.
As we made our way back to the missions house, we were excited to learn about our next stop - A local community center (think Boys & Girls Club). We stepped out of the tap tap and were greeted with smiles and waves and were covered in children within moments of our arrival.
This community center provides a safe place for kids to come during the day. They learn about leading in their communities and families. They get to just be kids and have fun, and after nearly 7 weeks out of school, this service is incredibly important.
Dan got into some arm wrestling matches with the kids. Annie taught kids how to play tic-tac-toe. Jen and Mel got their faces decorated with stickers. Tyse decided to let the kids braid her hair. Phil let his face become a canvas for some chalk artwork. Paul never let a child be without a lap to sit on. Melissa made every kids day when she handed out stickers. One of the team members from Healing Haiti, Smith, was from this neighborhood. Watching him light up as he led the children in a game and dance was something special.
The last part of our day was spent at the Home for Sick & Dying Children. You walk in and you're surrounded by kids who are just looking for people to hold them and love them.
Brandon found himself in a room surrounded by toddlers and he spent his time playing with them. Kiera rocked a baby on her lap as kids played dodgeball and laughed. Tara passionately shared how this experience shaped her perspective after last year's trip. Michael carried a baby around and started a game with the other toddlers outside. And I figured if I had two hips and two littles holding my hand that I'd take two babies with me. As challenging as this part of the day was, many of us wished it would never end.
Another member of the Healing Haiti staff, Jonas, grew up in that home and he was able to be there today and minister to the kids alongside us.
As a team, today in itself would make this entire trip worth it. To see how something that appears broken and fragile can also represent so much joy, faithfulness, delight, peace and radiate the presence of God brought us to a place of agape love for this country. To learn about the innovative ways Healing Haiti is reaching its people and building up the next generation to lead is inspiring. We feel that it is a privilege to serve here.
-Erika Bush & The Central Church Mission Team
