It brings me great joy to see the pensive look and ready hand of this girl. She does not know that she lives in a country abandoned by her own government and disparaged by foreigners. What she does know is that today she has the opportunity to learn and be all that she can be.
As I review the photos and travel logs from our most recent mission team trip to the EcoVillages in Haiti, I find myself reflecting on all they have accomplished. Sure, the people could not have gotten the school built without our help. But we did not construct the building, hire staff, and manage the budget. We do not oversee day to day operations. THEY DO. It's their school and what a marvelous job they are doing with the gift they have been given.
It started with the simple question "how can we help?" and the principle that we wouldn't do for others what they can do for themselves. The result is something that exceeds our expectations and demonstrates what is possible. As our friend, Mark Hare, put it "I don't know if there's hope for Haiti but there is hope in Haiti". Despite all the disadvantages and lack of opportunity, the people are eager to work and the children are eager to learn.
Chris Calia