Daily Archives: January 13, 2015

This was our first experience in taking one of our kids to the dentist. For a long time, Mona has suffered with her teeth, which had been hurting. It was a very interesting experience. She has 12 cavities and infections in some of her teeth. To get the fillings done, we needed to go to the pharmacy around the corner in order to get the materials needed for the dentist. Tomorrow at 8 a.m., Mona will begin her dental work.

Mona is being raised by her aunt, and she would never be able to afford to have her teeth done.

How appropriate it was that today, January 12, on the anniversary of the devastating earthquake, we began the formation of “Water Women” with 11 women. It was a very good meeting. The women want to learn how to use the filter and to share the pure water willingly. Tomorrow the formation process will continue with the second part.

Today, January 12, all of Haiti remembered the 5th anniversary of the earthquake that nearly destroyed their country. Many lives were lost; and people were crippled physically, psychologically, and socially.

We began the day with Mass and prayers for those who died and for those who survived and are still trying to rebuild their lives. In the evening, we invited our kids and teens who wanted to pray and to share what they had experienced on January 12, 2010, telling about where they were and what they felt.

The most moving story was from Deborah, whose story was shared by her mother. Deborah’s best friend was in her house at about 4:45 p.m. When the earthquake struck, her house fell on top of her, and she was buried alive. For two days, she was yelling for her mother and father. They could hear her cries, but they could not get her out. After two days, she died under the rubble.

The evening was a beautiful experience of songs, prayers, and sharing of stories. The kids asked us to share where we were that day. We assured them we were in solidarity with them, and that is why we are with them today. At the end of the service, one of our teenage boys thanked us for giving them the opportunity to share their stories and for wanting to listen to them. He thanked God for sending us to be with them. They all wanted us to thank the Felician Sisters for sending us here to Jacmel.