Looking back to look ahead...from Emory

         As we were flying into Haiti on June 25, I knew that from the time we stepped off the airplane to the time we stepped back on, I would be changed by what I saw, touched and heard over the five days. Having the opportunity to travel and serve with a truly flexible, giving, courageous and selfless team was an incredible blessing. God orchestrated every detail of our trip and it was clearly evident that we were in Haiti for a specific purpose. It was humbling and fulfilling to bathe children with hygiene supplies donated by our kids from Joyner and the members of HBBC, and to place school items into their hands to support their education. I will never forget the faces of the children after they put on their new clothes, socks and shoes for the first time. With huge smiles across their faces, they couldn’t have been happier to receive all the gifts! It was incredible! To see naked children longing to be loved and held was heart breaking, and it was a reminder that there are still great needs to be met. Among the five orphanages we visited, the first one had the greatest needs. From clothes, shoes, food, mattresses, and an upcoming school/bedroom for the children, I hope we can serve and support this orphanage in the future!

As I look back on how my heart was changed for the beautiful people of Haiti, I look ahead to the opportunities that Joyner students and HBBC can have to build our relationship with the Haitians. I strongly desire to return to Haiti and work with Convoy of Hope as they feed people and rebuild communities across the country. I look forward to seeing the precious children at the orphanages again, but also to share pictures and stories with my students, family, and church about how I was changed by the Haitians.