I was not sure how I would feel upon coming home to our “lavish” life after living in Haiti...

Haitian Children's Home

I was not sure how I would feel upon coming home to our “lavish” life after living in Haiti and seeing the poverty.  It was very humbling to realize I am blessed and expected to do much with what we have.  It is not about guilt, but all about utilizing my resources, contacts, influence, power and network to make an impactful difference.  It is a responsibility I have been entrusted with and guilt only works negatively. As our pastor told us, guilt is like a car wash, you are expected to get to the other side, nice and clean and keep moving; the problem is most people get stuck in the middle.  I was made to live where I do for a divine purpose and I will no longer question why am I here and not somewhere else in the world.  It is not for me to question only to make a difference impacting others with God’s love and grace.The poverty was so severe my heart was touched not just due to their life conditions but more on how resilient, resourceful and intelligent the Haitian people are. They are survivors with the absolute resolve to do whatever it takes to make something happen—without throwing money or “things”.  Poverty at that level simply does not exist in the US and unfortunately neither does the ability to try and solve our own problems. Haitians, regardless of their life circumstances, will find a way, not complain and deal with their life.   From the people we met, I was extremely touched by not only the perseverance, but the love in their hearts.  We all want a better life but the Haitian people really embrace what they have with pride and see what opportunities the world can provide.Finally, regardless of race, socioeconomic status and living standards, kids are kids regardless of where you live.  They want your precious love and time.  I came home wondering when was the last time I just sat and played games for hours with my daughter WITHOUT interruption or multi-taking.  It is time to be more intentional with focused time and doing what she loves to do, spending time with “Mommy and Daddy”.  When we walked into the Haitian Children’s Home we saw on the outside children who were abandoned by their parents or orphans but on the inside we saw pure hope, joy and love.  Something we all need a little more of.