Road Trip

We were welcomed to Haiti by being corralled through what felt like a third-world prison. We exited customs into a very long, fenced in cement area. Haitian men were hovering everywhere shouting and shoving and begging to help us with our bags in exchange for dollars. The men on our team met some aggression, but did a great job of keeping us safe.

The chaotic drive to Gressier through Carrfour brought the devastation up close. Thousands of Haitians littered the streets. The only thing more rampant than people was garbage and rubble. There is no garbage pick-up in Haiti, not even before the earthquake. Chaotic, lawless driving was complicated by earthquake torn roads and people lingering in the streets in between cars hustling to sell products or services. Children walked cows and goats on ropes. Women balanced huge baskets on their heads. People sold their product right on the sidewalk among the garbage and chickens. There were even a few large pigs digging through the trash.

Hundreds of people crammed together in tent cities broke our hearts. Our guide explained that they are actually very thankful. Before the earthquake, many had just lived on the earth. The earthquake brought in relief programs with aid and shelter.

The ocean was to our right as we drove along the coast, but completely undeveloped. Haitians built their lives across the street. Any other culture would have capitalized on the great Caribbean location, but Haitians won’t go near it. They are haunted by the voodoo of the spirits that live in the water.

The Haitian culture is very chaotic. People will not save or plan for the future and have a hard time structuring themselves. They are, however, survivors. They always find a way to make it from one day to the next.

We’ve arrived at our compound, ‘The Haitian Queen’ and are excited for a very powerful week of serving God’s people and humbling our hearts. Please pray for our health and safety and a very successful mission.

Susan