In January I came to Cazale to teach three boys because I felt called to do so and also felt a burden for the people of Cazale. These were new feelings for me. I have grown up a Christian and try more everyday to follow Jesus Christ, but the feelings I had before coming here were some I had never experienced before. These feelings I am grateful for because I truly believe this was me responding to the Holy Spirit. I still struggle every day to respond to the Holy Spirit because I am in a constant battle with pride and selfishness, but for this one instance I am forever thankful because I now know what genuinely responding to His Word is like.

In coming here I have learned so much more than I ever thought possible.

The Boys:

I have learned from Carmelo. He is quiet, but a deep thinker. He thinks before he speaks. He is the epitome of genuine.

I have learned from Henley. He observes. He takes in so much that the average eight year old doesn’t. He has a gentle spirit that can somehow read people so well. It really is a gift.

I have learned A LOT from Trey. Trying to explain Trey’s devotionals to him, answering his simple and innocent questions often reminds me how simple our call really is and that I often over think it. Trey also taught me that encouragement is clearly the best motivation. Should of have been a no brainer right? Punishment does not work on this one. Patience and encouragement will take you a long way though!

Madelene:

How in the world does a little, malnourished child, who can’t even walk upon first arriving, come to the RHFH and completely change my world? This child is sassy, mischievous, silly, and pure joy. Madelene kept me going on the hard days and God could not have given me a better roommate.

Lori:

I have learned from Lori that the humble work is often the most rewarding. She truly does work for God and not for man. I pray she knows just how much she is a teacher as she is a nurse and just how much she is loved.

Licia:

From Licia, I have learned how to love when it is really hard. I have learned a lot about myself: sometimes I suck at loving when it’s hard. This woman radiates joy and I love her for it. Her relational, approachable spirit is such a gift. This woman pours herself out daily: to her employees, to the people of Cazale, to the children at the rescue center, and to her family at home. Have I mentioned she is a rockin’ mom too?

Licia and Lori:

These women have taught me so so much. From the simple things like teaching me how to correctly use postage and open a can of vegetables with a knife to the more difficult things like teaching me invaluable things about the culture of Haiti and most importantly teaching me how to love. For these things I am FOREVER thankful.

Maybe it’s not up to me to say this, but I’m going to anyways…. there’s no doubt in my mind that one day Lori and Licia will be hearing these words: “Well done good and faithful servant.”

Somewhere along the way I fell in love with three precious boys, a family, a culture, and Cazale.

I am blessed, honored, and humbled to have served and been served by the God given people at Real Hope for Haiti.