Sunday

Today was a fun day: took a "tap-tap" to a neighboring town of Veret, hiked to a waterfall, went swimming, and had a long relaxing afternoon to read, nap, and listen to the rain and thunderstorm.  Tap-taps are the equivalent of busses: you stand by the side of the road and put your hand out, a pick-up truck stops, you jump in the back, and tap the window when you want to get off.  Veret was interesting and lively.  We passed by a market with fruits and clothing for sale, walked by women carrying impossibly large baskets and bags perfectly balanced on top of their heads, and churches alive with singing.  Children would stare and scream "HELLO!" as we walked by.  One very cute girl ran up, grabbed my hand, and ran away, giggling.  There were some nicer houses, but most homes and shops were little more than cinder block, rusty tin, and sticks.  This area was not affected by the earthquake, so these communities are much better off than many people in Haiti.  Many men approached us, telling us about how they don't have work, have children to feed, and need our help.  Poverty at this level is something that I have never witnessed before, and it's been difficult for me to process.  I know that I can't help everyone--this is something that will take many years and much effort to change.  Helping the people at the clinic is a small contribution but one that I hope will make a big difference in a few individual lives.