Walking the canal road by myself early morning on Christmas Day I enjoyed a quiet time, no children, no one calling me, needing me, expecting something from me. I was thinking of Canada, thinking of Haiti, reminiscing, thanking God that I am now in year 24 here for children, and thanking him for my life that is in his hands.
It was peaceful and rejuvenating. I watched workers in the fields, others coming to join them in that job – workers there to do what many in North America would call ‘a back breaking day in the hot sun’. These men were thankful to be hired to work Christmas Day in the heat tilling the soil by hand, as it would mean sustenance for them and whoever depended upon them.
I walked slowly thinking about Christmas in Canada, Christmas in Haiti, and the differences in how it is celebrated. I missed my Canadian family, friends, adult fellowship, fun laughter, and yes Christmas dinner, but at the same time was thankful to be able to be here for yet another Christmas with the children.
The children were very happy and thankful to receive a gift and a stocking, and a very special meal at Christmas. Most children in Haiti do not receive a gift and do not know what a Christmas stocking is. I pray these children at HATS continue to be thankful for everything that people give, and do, for them. Thank you to all who were involved in making Christmas special and happy for 22 children.
May God bless you all.
Karen
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