Remembering in Hope

Life changed radically for me three years ago today, as I watched in horror and witnessed the events unfolding here in Haiti. A country which I had never given a second thought, suddenly pierced my heart and I was compelled to come serve as part of a disaster relief team. Through providence, I was on the ground here a mere eleven days later. Little did I know that, as I worked alongside heroic new friends, the groundwork was being laid within me for a decision to come live with these extraordinary people, to learn from and to care for them. My heart has only grown since then. To know such deep conviction, to stand with those whose only possessions are faith, hope and love, to learn from their determination and testimony, to revel in the power of countless moments of grace, to be part of the story. Haiti does not reach the headlines very often anymore, with the exception of days like today, when the worldwide media outlets write the progress of the country since the earthquake in a negative light. What is not reported are the massive changes and improvements that HAVE occurred here, and how organizations partnering with Haitians are diligently working to repair the damage the country has endured and sustained over the last 200 years, long before the devastation of the earthquake was even present. I am honored to care for 200 of Haiti's littlest heroes: children who embrace life, love with their entire selves and are the embodiment of hope. Haiti marches on, Haiti will not die, and Haiti cannot die. 

Remembering at mass, 12th January 2013

The mural in our chapel, signifying the beginnings of the rescue

The aid and assistance of the Angels of Light and restoration programs

Walking into the future. Among the leaves on the left are some faces, representing those unknown to us, but known to God.

 I want to share with you a few of Fr. Rick Frechette’s words on this day of remembrance:

“It seems in general in life, as we get further away in time from a tragedy, even if the memory becomes a little more bearable with every passing year, the pain seems even sharper. Probably because we are increasingly freer of the shock more able to face the meaning of what happened.

Our deepest sympathy to the families of our volunteers, friends, employees and young graduates of our homes, whose lives changed on that day, as St Paul says, “in the twinkling of an eye”. Those who died are now sons and daughters of light and of glory, and we beg their prayers, and to share in their light.

Our deepest thanks to all who have helped us carry the burden of healing and rebuilding for these three years, who have helped us bind wounds and heal the brokenhearted, shelter the orphan and the homeless, and who have helped us strive for new years of favor. You have been instruments of abundant life, light and hope.”

--January 11th, 2013, Eve of the 3rd anniversary of the Tremblement de Terre

Fragments of the Cathedral, which fell in the earthquake.

The brave children from the Angels of Light program.

Gravesites of several religious sisters who died in the earthquake. They are buried outside the chapel at St. Damien.

 If living and working here has taught me anything, it is to be present to those important to me, to truly give them my attention, to validate them, love them, listen to them and dignify them. Cherish those whose lives have influenced yours, and do not rule out new opportunities or possibilities. Relish the moments you are given with the ones you love, and for goodness's sake, tell those in your life how you feel about them! We are all desperate to know we are loved and important, and in the age of crazy, instant technology and material overload, the basics of relationships are often forgotten. Yet they are the most important. May we remember also that our neighbors are not just the ones who are on our streets or in our cities, but are also those on other continents. When our brothers and sisters suffer, we all suffer. 

I love you, Haiti, and I am honored to care for your sons and daughters. Let us never forget the indignity you have suffered, but let us use the emotions we feel to drive us forward and break the cycle of trauma, violence and confusion.