One of the most profound statements that I have heard during my first day here in St. Louis du Nord came from our co-leader, Randy: “The journey is not the gift. Using God’s gifts that He has given each one of us is the gift.” I am paraphrasing, of course, but the meaning was not lost on me. The journey has definitely not been a gift. After leaving the Denver International Airport at midnight MST Friday, we finally arrived at the Mission around 3:30 PM EST on Saturday. It was definitely not the most comfortable of flights or bus rides and spending over 16 hours traveling is never without its stress. In fact, I found myself saying quick prayers for a safe arrival numerous times throughout the day! And God has, once again, been with us and provided a healthy and safe arrival for all team members. The journey was difficult, yes, but I think all of us can agree that we are now ready to truly start giving.
And never have I witnessed a community that needs the “giving” more. I came into this trip have zero expectations or at least that is what I thought. Now I realize, that whatever I had once imagined, it is nothing to the reality now around me. Never in my life have a seen such poverty, such hardship. Not even on my worst day have I ever had to face the challenges that these people face every day of their lives. I have only been here less than 24 hours and I am already a jumbled mix of emotions. How can I ever look at my life back home and think that I need more? How can I return to my normal after witnessing firsthand the “harsh reality” of this world? There is so much poverty, so much desolation. How can we, a simple medical team of 30, ever make a difference in this place? Yet, despite all these negative emotions fluttering through me, I know that God has a plan. He has delivered this amazing medical team here safely for a reason. Sure, we can’t change the Haitian world in the 8 days that we are here. But we can change the world of dozens of Haitians while we are here. And most importantly, we can make a difference through the love and grace of JESUS CHRIST. That is what makes the tough journey worth it. That is the GIFT.
Thank you for the prayers and keep them coming! We will need them 
God bless!
-Emily P.
