New Sights

Today is our fifth day in Haiti.

While we all knew that we were going back to Port au Prince this morning, it was very evident that no one was truly ready to leave. Kristin our MCC coordinator did not resist shedding some tears as she said her final good byes to the Dezam team and we contributed by singing our farewell song. 

Once we got on the road our hearts felt less heavy. We were all excited for the beach, a part of the trip that most if not all of us were probably looking forward to. Because Haiti is frequently called "the poorest country in the western hemisphere," many people would perceive Haiti as only one image: undeveloped, uninspiring and even indigent. During the drive however, that image quickly disappeared as we saw amazing farms being cultivated by self sustaining people, mountains of great power that stood far in the horizon and showed a Haiti that is independent and strong. The road wasn't short of people who sold all kinds of foods and other self made goods. 

Being in Dezam, we had experienced a very simple Haiti, but arriving to Ouanga Bay showed us that Haiti was also a place of not only money but power. We had the privilege to go to a family owned beach. Away from the bazaar and the noisy animals we were used to in Dezam, we experienced the peace and tranquility Haiti has to offer. At the beach we were welcomed by warm smiles and hospitality from the workers. We were surrounded by clear blue water, coconut trees, and some lively Kompa music. It was great to see everyone take this time to relax and enjoying themselves. Some people snorkeled and stayed in the water all day, while others enjoyed the sun rays while reading a book.

Being in this amazing environment, we had to take the time to realized and recognize that this trip is arming us with life lessons and relationships that we would not have developed anywhere else. The relationships we are forming as a team as well as the ones we make each day individually are the things that make each of us and shape us. We are blessed to experiences the beauties of the world that Haiti hides so well and sharing this with you is my message to you. Pick a stereotyped place, find its beauties and talk or write about them.

-Melissa & Andrea