Ramblings...

So, I wasn't going to blog -- I didn't think I was going to have much to say. Boy, was I wrong. The trip is winding down, so I figured I better get on here while I can. We saw some serious poverty today, not like anything we've seen so far. This place was rough. I've stayed steady not showing too much emotion (you know, for the kids...not my masculinity), but after today it's hard not to feel for these people.

The kids at the orphanage are awesome. But in all honesty, they have it good compared to most of what we've seen in the surrounding sects of the city. Every day you can see a little of us rub off on them (I taught one kid to say "Mark is a doofus" and led a push-up contest -- which I dominated...obviously). The boys love to rough house, which is right in my alley, and the girls have been trying to braid my moderately short hair all week. It's been fun, but it's taking a toll on me. I'll be going back to my comfortable living situations and cozy desk job and leaving them here with next to nothing. So, what do I do? Leave them my hat and my size 12 Nike's?

We got to sit in at their church service today, which was absolutely riveting. The place was packed with the most joyous faces -- young and old. The service was almost all music and the whole congregation got into it. I've been to various different churches and denominations, however I've never experienced anything like this. After the service people were coming up and thanking us for helping...and it honestly felt like I could have done much more and only tapped the surfaces of my resources. I feel guilty about that, but there will most definitely be a next time. I will be more prepared.

It's tough. We helped pour concrete and move desks into the school -- which was laborious, don't get me wrong -- but it was so minimal compared to what we could have done. They just don't have the resources and tools. What we could have done in the US in a day took three. The technology is just not here. And yet, Pastor Rigaud was so happy. His face lit up after he saw the work. I guess that's good for us, but much has been left on the table.

I figured with all the manual labor (oh, and it was hard labor) and poor "diet", I would be hurting everyday. This was not the case. The food was terrific, they even made us some mac-n-cheese that was absolutely delish. I'm 100% positive God gave me the strength and stamina to pass bricks over my head for hours in 90+ degree heat (insert me mentioning my wicked sunburn here). Also, the humidity at night, along with the 24/7 Pentacostal church right outside our window -- I didn't think I would last through the week. Not going to lie, I feel guilty eating the food that's prepared for us, when many outside the orphanage walls go hungry. Tough spot to be in.

I will admit, leading up to this trip, I was skeptical about tagging along. I've never done anything like this and frankly I didn't think I ever would. I figured I could donate from the comfort of my home computer or toss something into the offering plate if I felt moved to do so. But, this is an experience I will never forget and I really hope we made at least a tiny impression on the
people here. Even if it's just to let them know that there are people out there willing to help and they aren't in this mess all by themselves. And this place is a mess.

I have noticed how much a take for granted. I haven't thought about watching TV or sports or the Facebook social networks at all this week. I've been online maybe twice here, just to catch up on some birthdays and current events. This is coming from a guy that probably spends 10 hours a day in front of a computer at work and living and dying with my Boston sports teams. This place puts everything in perspective and makes you cherish what is really important in life. And I have too much unnecessary crap in mine. Time to start trimming the fat (hah, literally too) in my life.

The one thing I wonder is if things can ever change here. I honestly doubt it, and that's a shame. It seems to stem from the government (I don't know the historical background, but from what I gather it's pretty corrupt) and trickles down into the ghettos. I know sponsoring a kid will open up opportunities...but my heart breaks for these kids. They can't stay here...no one should be subject to this. Most people seem genuinely happy, but that's probably because they see us American's and hope we bring some of our fortunes with us. Maybe they smile because they see us and they see hope. Hope for a better tomorrow.

Anyways, I am truly blessed. I realize this. It's just a shame that it took till now.

~Matt D.