Pato, Pato, GANSO

I stood with my team outside of a dainty, dirt-ridden shack that they called home. I mustered up the strength to hold back the tears so close to pouring out my eyes. I continued to listen to the story of a torn-apart family in desperation for money of some kind. A father who is fighting relentlessly to bring his daughters a better future, even if that means only eating once a week himself. The absolute depravity of these living conditions breaks my heart. 

The dire circumstances in the DR are this: many impoverished communities are full of illegal immigrants from Haiti. Due to substantial political unrest and danger, they fled to have a better life. Though, the sad reality is that many people have not found anything better. They have become stranded by unemployment with no way to fix it because they do not have the papers. The majority of the people I talked to said that they hate living here and that it is very hard. It leaves me feeling entirely helpless, yet not hopeless.

In James 1 it discusses to, “2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” This passage has been heavily laid on my heart these past days. When things get complicated, we can consider it pure joy. What would it look like if I honestly considered my trials pure joy? If we genuinely press into the difficulties, ultimately, in Christ, we can be lacking NOTHING! Thinking of this brought a commonality between myself and the people we were meeting. No matter what material things we have in this world, trials still occur. All of us can be unified in our fullness and strength in Jesus Christ. One day, Jesus is going to wipe away every one of our tears! The earth is so very temporary, and this passage helps me realize that. My main job in visiting these families is not necessarily to change their physical circumstances but to uplift and encourage them in eternity with Jesus Christ.

While the ministry has often been emotionally challenging, there have been lighthearted moments full of laughter. On our first day, I walked down the village road and saw these girls playing. I asked them if they spoke Spanish, only to respond that I barely speak it myself. I tried my best to talk with them. We talked about our names, favorite colors, sports we like, how many siblings we have, etc. I cannot describe the feeling I feel when they start talking SO fast, and I stand there dumbfounded. Google translate has been my best friend. After our broken conversation, I asked them if they wanted to play a game. To the best of my ability, I taught them how to play “Pato-pato-ganso” (duck-duck-goose;) ) and “Rojo luz, Verde luz” (red light, green light). We had so many fun laughs and beautiful times together. Though, if you have a sensitive head, I strongly advise you not to allow the kids to braid your hair. They will yank it, no doubt about it. Sadly, I learned this from personal experience. Later that same day, a baby that I was holding fell asleep in my arms- it melted my heart. Playing with the kids is an incredible way to allow the other team members to have a good conversation with the parents. 

Last week we primarily had these house visits, but we will begin teaching an English class for Haitian kids next week. Many Haitian kids do not have an opportunity for an education due to the DR’s immigration policies. Monday through Thursday, we will conduct an English class the first half of the day and visit homes the second half. On Fridays, we have an adventure day. Generally, this looks like going to the beach, about two hours away. On Saturdays, we have a sabbath day for rest and recovery. On Sundays, we go to church and then assist at youth group that night. 

I have absolutely been adoring everything about the DR. Continue praying for my team to continue effectively building relationships and show Jesus. Also, pray that there will not be a tarantula ANYWHERE near my bed; last night I saw one the size of my HAND!!!??????

Thank you for all of your prayers!

Truly, Peyton