We began our fourth day in Haiti with a lovely breakfast of waffles, eggs and fruit. Then we split into two groups and left campus to visit the homes of local Haitians. Sara, Tia, Liv and Hannah O. spent time with a family and learned about their lives. One woman shared that she had recently lost a child and we prayed and told them we would not forget them or their story. Caitlyn, Hannah H., Megan and Emma visited a family with an eight year old son, Claude who Emma has known since 2015. He is blind but has learned to walk and interact with others. They spent time playing and dancing with him as well as praying with his family.
Both groups gained perspective into the lives of the locals and will remember the time spent in their homes. After returning to campus we spent time processing the events of our trip so far and played with the orphanage children. Later in the day, Megan and Hannah O. led day one of the audition for the group Opening Act. They taught a combination and Megan learned how to count in Creole. They will continue tomorrow with choosing the next group of dancers for the up-coming season.
Meanwhile, Emma led the audition for Our Generation with the help of Sara, Liv, Tia, and Caitlyn. It was a fun up beat dance that everyone enjoyed. There were many awesome moments when we could interact one on one with the dancers while assisting Emma. We think we all know how to count in Creole now….but we will give you an update later in the week.
The audition will continue Wednesday and Thursday and the new group will be chosen. Dinner was so good with the most amazing, delicious bread we have ever had. After we ate, Hannah H. led a devotion about finding joy in experiences and not material things. We look forward to seeing what the rest of the week brings, especially waking up tomorrow at 4:50am to take a boat to Kapafu. It is going to be a great experience!
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Wow.. this week has been nothing like I expected, but in the best way. Before leaving for the trip I asked God to give me an open heart and to let me see Him during my time in Haiti. Now being here for four days I can honestly say I have seen him in new ways. The grace, love, and kindness that I have been shown from the Haitians is unreal. It has been a blessing to be able to spend time with the Haitian people and pray with them. They have shown me how to unapologetically worship. It is so beautiful to hear people calling out and singing to God through all hours of the day.
One part of this trip that has been amazing is seeing how dance really can bring people together. I love that through dance we can communicate and spend time together just dancing and laughing. I have loved getting to dance with people of all ages and learning some new moves. One of my favorite moments so far has been dancing with the school children in Carnage. They are the cutest little nuggets and they know how to bust a move. I look forward to our 5:30 a.m. boat ride to Kapafu and dancing with the people tomorrow!
-Sara Harris
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I still can’t believe I am here in Haiti. Every day brings a new experience and I so very thankful that I am here with this fantastic group of people. This country is filled with the most kind and beautiful people and I have loved making connections with the Haitians. One of my favorite parts of the trip thus far has been dancing with the Dames. These women have the youngest spirits and know how to have a good time.
I loved being able be a part of an hour of their day to dance and laugh. It has also been great to make a connection between Our Generation and Strike Time. The show we performed in January showcased the groups’ amazing talent. Being able to meet the people that I saw on video three months ago and dance alongside them has been the most rewarding experience.
We have also had some much needed tough conversations and although there are many things that I still need to process, I am focusing on being present and aware during my time here. I look forward to the rest of the week of meeting incredible people and sharing a love of dance.
PS: The baby blanket I presented was to a family in Carnage that Emma has visited every week. The baby boy, Woodkaley, is almost two months old and Emma’s godson. The family was so kind and welcoming and I am glad I was able to meet them. Thanks for the comments, keep them coming!
-Tia
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