Things to be thankful for

Every day brings new challenges, and often new reasons to want to go home. I am resolved to see this through. I am certain I was called here for a reason. Whether it is about helping with the growth of these children, or just to help with my own personal growth, or maybe both, I do not know. What is certain is that I am not the same person I was 4 months ago. 


In many ways I am become more cautious and reserved and in other ways I am letting go of that caution and reservation. I am hoping to achieve a higher level of enlightenment either way. 


One of the most difficult things to do is to practice what you preach. Even to practice what you believe. To say you believe in something is one thing. To actually have the conviction to live it is not an easy life. 

Mamma said there'd be days like this

My vacation is coming in two short weeks. I say this even though I know they will be the longest weeks of my life! I have nearly battled off what I'm assuming was a case of strep. I had the swollen glands for only a few days, but the malaise is lingering. Oh, and I guess I haven't been doing a good job of replacing my proteins, my hair is falling out in chunks! I'm going to have to get a case of green beans or spinach and start beefing up my diet. 


Or I could just let it fall out. That would be one less thing to worry about. There is an awful fungal infection that keeps passing around the kids. It mostly affects their scalps. Some of the girls are losing small patches of hair. There is little we can do. The fungus is common in dusty regions like Delmas. Aside from living in a bubble, we are providing the next best thing for these little ones. They have the best meds and care available. It's just one of those things you have to get used to. Meanwhile, I think I will start adding tea tree oil to the hair grease they use. 


So, I'm headed to Universal Studios for two days of fun in the sun. Besides the Harry Potter Adventure, what MUST I do when I get there?


more later...

Things to Ponder

I have been having a lot of difficulties in addressing many of the staff issues here at the mission. Both with employees and with some of the older young men and young ladies that help out here while they complete their education. It seems like some things we Americans take for granted is the ability to discern cause and affect. It seems that often times I think I have achieved acceptance of some principle of hygiene or preventive maintenance when all of a sudden, it becomes a challenge once again. I feel like I am constantly reinventing the wheel. I sometimes get to the point where I want to throw my hands up in the air and take the next flight home. 

School Daze, School Daze, Dear old Golden Rule Days

So, today begins our 3rd week in the new school. I am amazed at the progress so far, both from our students, and from our Haitian staff. The cornucopia of Montessori materials that were brought have taken the English lessons to a whole new level. No wonder these programs are so awesome! Aside from a few kids that have some developmental or behavioral issues, all of the kids are really enjoying the access to these resources.


This week we will attempt finger paint for the first time. I'm a little trepidatious, but the kids have really taken to the new format well. I am hoping to be pleasantly surprised.