Today: I hated to leave Haiti.
[tweetmeme source=”elizabethev” only_single=false] Really. I have never seen a place so extraordinary. I hated to leave. But if I stayed, who would take care of Clark? Besides, I only had one pair of underoos with me. But if we could have stayed a while longer, we would have. You might be wondering… isn’t it a bit not okay to go cut loose and have fun somewhere where so many people are suffering? To run away from everyday life in a place where there is so much work to be done? It’s okay to wonder that. The answer? I’m not sure.
But like Oprah, there are a few things I know for sure. Unfortunately, unlike Oprah, I can’t give you a bunch of awesome free things. And I don’t have a bestie named Gail. And I don’t have a magazine or television show. But I totally should. Um. Back to the important stuff.
This is what I know for sure.
I know that if someone welcomes you to their island, then that is exactly where you’re supposed to be.
I know that my heart soared when I caught my first glimpse of Haiti’s lush hills, turquoise waters, rambling paths, and beautiful-beautiful-beautiful faces.
I know that I was happy to see that our ship– like others docking each week in Haiti– was carrying relief supplies.
And I know, sadly, that the conditions in Haiti continue to worsen. And I know that something needs to be done. And I know that we can help. And I know my words cannot do the situation justice, but I hope my pictures will help you to fall as in love with Haiti as I did. And I hope that love will compel you to find some way, big or small, to help.
Normally I’d make a joke about knotty trees… but I’m not really in the mood. You see, I am a bit of a wreck.
Someone, please. Stop me.
I know that sometimes you need a break. And that taking a break– no matter where it is– can help you to be a more effective helper. I’ve returned with a clearer mind, a rested body, a grateful spirit, and an open heart.
Also On Tap for Today:
- Your chances of winning Weleda’s Body Oil Essentials Kit is absurdly high right now, comment to win! 🙂
- Finally! Something to do with those pesky silica packets (besides, you know, throw them out…)
- I haven’t given you a baby hippo in a while
What are you most grateful for right now?
Comments (9)
kristine
November 23, 2010 at 11:22 pm
I’m grateful for YOU! 🙂 xoxo
htothedizzle
November 23, 2010 at 11:41 pm
My uncle just got back from a mission trip to Haiti. He liked it so much he going back in March of 2011!
Hi! My name is Hallie and I have entered a Savvy Magazine photo shoot contest. I know you don’t know me but the winners are chosen by the public and if the public doesn’t know they need to vote…well, you guessed it, no one votes! Could you take a moment and look at my photos and decide if you would vote for me or not? Thanks! Here’s the link, could you pass it along?
http://www.exploremodeling.com/Casting/SavvySpring2011/46935/Hallie_Miller.aspx
Randi
November 24, 2010 at 4:03 pm
Here from ICLW 🙂 Sounds like you’re having a great time – enjoy and take care of yourself. Right now I’m thankful for my ability to feel grateful.. it wasn’t always this way and its important for me to remember that. Have a great rest of your trip and be safe getting home. Sending prayers and best wishes.
noguruholdsme
November 25, 2010 at 7:31 am
Hello via ICLW …
Beautiful photos, and a touching post.
As you asked of us, today I am grateful for having a house to live in. It’s getting very cold in the north of England now, and at this time of year my thoughts inevitably turn to those who haven’t got a warm place to stay. We should always appreciate simple things like this.
All the best, and happy Thanksgiving to you.
Annissa
November 26, 2010 at 5:06 pm
AMAZING photos!! Very nice post!
Happy ICLW
Rebecca
November 27, 2010 at 12:26 pm
Stopping by from ICLW…what an amazing, beautiful post! I loved the pictures and how you were able to tie together great humor with inspiration! Your trip looked incredible.
I’m thankful for this amazing IF blogging community and the hope of our first donor FET next week. Happy ICLW:)
Jessica @ Dairy Free Betty
November 28, 2010 at 4:50 pm
oh my goshhhhhhhhhhhhhhh these pictures are so amazing!!
My heart goes out to those families in Haiti 🙁
purplume
December 1, 2010 at 3:10 am
Right now I am most grateful for being able to listen to my body and do activities that fit my energy and mood. Lucky I have so many things to do there are some for every mood.
Today: While I’m 29 (and superfine). «
March 8, 2011 at 6:29 pm
[…] list, but LBS*… I was pretty busy doing other rad stuff while I was 28. Like traveling to Haiti, Mexico, Maine, Florida, the Cape (obvi) and New York. And running my bum off (except that most […]