In July 2014, I stepped on a plane headed back to the United
States, feeling overwhelmed with emotions. I was leaving a place that had left such
a significant impact on my heart. God had done great things on the trip I had
just taken, as well as on the first trip I took to Haiti in 2012, but there was
an unsettled feeling within me. I sensed God saying to me, “You are not finished here.” Little did I
know, the rest of my story would pick up in 2016 with a college group that would
grow to be very important to me, and with an outreach organization that would soon
inspire me in ways that I never could have anticipated.
Last week, I had the joy of returning to Les Cayes, Haiti. This
experience certainly brought a multitude of emotions, challenges, and opportunities
to learn. Most of all, however, it led me to be closer to God. Although I have
a countess number of stories to share, over the next few days I would love to
simply highlight a few of the things that truly left a lasting impact on me.
Perhaps, the most impactful encounter I experienced last
week was with Daphne (pictured on the left) and Bethsaida (pictured on the right).
In 2012, I met two girls that immediately had a special
connection with me and my mom. Although there was a language barrier, we
communicated in a way that was beyond words. We laughed together, played games,
sang together, and shared many special moments. I grew to love Bethsaida’s
spunky, energetic personality, and Daphne’s quiet, sweet spirit. I especially
related to Daphne, as her interests and temperament were so similar to my own.
In 2014, my parents and I returned to Haiti and got to see
these girls once again. It was such a special time to see how they had grown. Getting
to spend another week with them really led me and my parents to feel a new
level of love for these girls. They weren’t just “some kids” that we sponsored;
they were a part of our family. They were (and ARE) valuable individuals that
deserved to have someone praying for them and loving them.
Little did I know, I would once again see these beautiful
girls! The only way I can describe how this happened is by God. On the trip I took
last week, I was coming with a different church and partnering with a different
program called “Hut Outreach.” While I was still extremely excited to return to
Haiti and work alongside this organization, I couldn’t help but wish I could
still see these girls.
That wish came true.
Long story short, the two organizations were only a ten
minute drive apart, and it just so happens that they planned to connect for the
first time during my stay in Haiti. After visiting with the missionaries at
Arise Haiti (where I first met the girls), I knew that I needed to see them
again. By the grace of God (and the help of some very intentional
missionaries), we were able to arrange a last-minute meeting!
It’s hard to put into words what this meant to me, but it
was something very special. I was able to share with Daphne and Bethsaida
something God put on my heart to tell them. I may not ever know if these words
meant anything to them, but I know that God softened my heart to love and care
for them in a way far beyond what I ever could have on my own.
I am so grateful for this experience. It is something I will
truly never forget.
Until next time,
Tamara
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