A little rain isnt so bad…
So… another day has passed. And you all out there, mostly back in the states, are following along pretty close and want to know what is going on and how we feel. Well, today was tough. We had some things to do today that just didn’t seem like they were going to get done – and they didnt. So that kind of drug me down. Building the bunk beds is an ongoing task that takes a lot of time and a couple people. Right now, as we are still getting used to everything our days get soaked up by everything very quick. I got one bunk bed finished (minus the lag bolts) with the help of Byambison. Nathan made a lot of progress on the video with Nadege but not finished. Knowing that all of these projects have to be done very soon is tough. Also, we ran into a issue with the cooks. We had to figure out a per person price for food each day so I can set the money aside. This is where I began to get frustrated and worn out. Seeing as I can understand only a little of the language – 2 hours of translating and speaking is ROUGH! It will wear you out very quickly.
I finally wrapped up the meeting with the cooks – we settled on a price – and it was time to head to Cite Soleil to pay the translators and driver. When I got to C/S they still had people waiting to be seen by the Dr’s. This is the first time I have seen the patients at the clinic. To hear the stories and to see the people is completely different. I was correct when I said I didn’t want to be there. That is a very sad sight – our health is something we don’t even think about. It is beyond taking it for granted.. we know that we will be healthy (for the most part). We live in clean places and have everything we need within arms reach. A lot of these people suffer from things that are easily preventable.
I know that we will see more things that will open our eyes while we are here. I pray for the people here that they will have peace while things get back to normal and as the rebuild begins. And that they will see God’s love and power through the relief workers and minister in Haiti.
A good quote from one of the medical team members tonight… “I try to live simple so that other may simply live” – this hit home as it is what I struggled with for awhile. I saw how much I had – and didn’t deserve – and saw people in such great need. There is nothing wrong with having a lot… but when you have the ability to help/serve and you don’t, that’s where the problem arises.
Sorry for the sad post, but you all wanted to know the emotions and how I feel. So here it is.
ALWAYS with Love,
Stephen
March 4th, 2010 at 10:25 pm
Not a sad post, just sober and real…I like it. That’s what we need to keep us in touch with the needs of those around us. It’s an awesome thing when we start to see things from God’s perspective. Thank you for sharing. It’s great to see how God is working IN you as well as THROUGH you.
Praying for stamina and wisdom…
March 5th, 2010 at 9:48 am
Man I know it’s hard but I tell you this it is worth it in the end when you see the works that you are doing go into motion. I know the feeling you are feeling but trust me it’s a good emotion to have with what you are doing. I wish the best to you guys and I will be praying for you two. When you get and address let me know cause I know what it means to be away from everything. Love you guys!
March 5th, 2010 at 5:53 pm
I agree with Dana. I wouldn’t call this post “sad” as much as “sober.” I’d rather read real & honest posts. Even if that means “sad,” “sober” or “happy/encouraging.”
What is a direct email address to you? Mentioned to someone at Christ Chapel about getting together a mission trip to Haiti and they seemed interested. Wanted to connect you two. Also, how would someone become part of the medical team if they were interested?