Day 10: Short and Sweet

I realize that yesterday I posted a rather long blog. In these busy times it’s hard enough to find time to read a blog in the first place, let alone such a long one. My apologies. Today’s will be much shorter.

This morning was spent being trained for the new “orphanage” and restructuring the new format. Never did I think I would ever be able to implement the 5 step lesson plan in Haiti (thanks TFA.) Goes to show you just never know where life is going to take you! It was great to be able to focus so much time and energy on structuring a sustainable education program that can easily be followed by anyone who follows in the months ahead. And, I can’t believe I’m going to say this… it’s amazing to be able to track the children’s progress and what they’ve learned and still need to learn.

…

I’d like to take a minute to tell you my favorite thing about Haitians (outside of their generosity.) Most Haitians have a very forlorn almost angry look constantly plastered on their faces. It can be quite intimidating and daunting, making you feel as if they desire us to be gone. BUT, then you say “bonjou” and it’s like a switch is turned. Their faces immediately light up and they smile beamingly and reply “bonjou” with such love. It makes me happy every time I see their rather grumpy faces turn exuberant.

I like to test this theory out and try it on people who look especially angry and who would seem to dislike us foreigners the most. To date (10 days) I have yet to meet one person who did not smile back. This makes me want to say hello to each and every person that walks by. Wouldn’t you? To say hello and have someone respond (something that doesn’t happen often in NYC) and to have them respond with such delight - it’s addicting.