There are lots of sounds in Haiti... It's not uncommon to wake up to a symphony roosters, donkeys, flies, dogs, music, people. We all joke that walking down the street in the morning is like the opening song in Beauty and the Beast: "Bonjour! Bonjour! Bonjour Bonjour Bonjour!" Music blares on motos, people bargain over prices in the market, kids yell out blan! And singing. Lots of singing. Everyone seems to be singing all the time.
But never in all my time in Haiti have I heard a sound like I heard today. It was a sound that will be etched into my memory forever, that will haunt my dreams. The screaming cries of a woman whose husband died in our clinics this morning. The sound continued to echo in my ears so loudly--even after I pulled myself away--that I had to clamp my hands over my ears to be able to hear the still soft voice trying to calm me.
I don't know her name. I never even saw her face. But I heard her anguish and will never forget. Please pray for her. Please.
I'm writing early because we leave for the Mole tomorrow. It's a 7.5 hour trip each way, and we'll come back Monday. Pray for safe travels!
Happy Father's Day, Papa!
Melissa
Thanks Melissa. Hope to hear from you on Sunday. I may be at the movies in the afternoon.
ReplyDeleteSorry to hear about her loss. Sad very sad. :(
Love you,
Papa
I was praying for this woman while I was in church today and we were praying for all the fathers (and future fathers). I only just remembered that they probably don't celebrate Father's day there. I pray that she finds comfort.
ReplyDeleteYour dad told me you were able to call him. YAY!
Just curious....in the morning, when it is like Beauty and the Beast, are you walking around with your book reading????
Miss you bunches and bunches,
Mom
Saw this post today and thought of you and your commitment to reckless love. Lots of love from your CUMC Family. We are praying for you and miss you. - Lisa <><
ReplyDeleteBe grateful for the love that surrounds you, and for the opportunities you have to love. Be mindful of your place in this world, and your connection to people you care about. Never doubt that you are loved, though those who love you may be far away. Love people, every chance you get. Spend your love recklessly; it will never be wasted. It is the spending, not the result, that enriches us.
Pay attention to the moment that you're in. It will pass. It is a transition, not a final destination. Each moment is a letting go and a beginning. Love in this moment. Receive what this moment offers you. Be lovingly attentive to what is, in the present moment. What comes next is full of promise, not the least of which is this: that there will always be more love. Trust this, and let God's delight fill you.
~Steve Garnaas-Holmes
www.unfoldinglight.net