New School Year and New Year of Life

On Wednesday, I happily returned to Haiti, feeling grateful for my many varied experiences this summer, the many people in my life, and my health.  This school year I will be working less at the orphanage than I have in the past and will spend more time working in the schools that the Sisters of Holy Cross sponsor.  I will be offering school social work services in a few primary schools and teaching English conversation in a secondary school.  I already met with the teachers at one of the schools and am looking forward to working with the teachers and students there.  Most teachers, students, and parents are not familiar with the concept of school social workers; the teachers at the school I visited seemed quite receptive and welcoming.  My desire is to listen to what people perceive to be their needs and learn from them so that I can offer accompaniment, a listening ear, an empowering perspective and I pray that somehow I can be a healing presence.    

Two days after my return I celebrated my birthday.  This year, I was happy to celebrate with the sisters at Leocadie Convent, where I live.  We had delicious pumpkin soup for supper (at my request) and ice cream for dessert, followed by a special evening prayer, which was in Creole (since I don't understand French.)  It was an enjoyable evening.

So, it is a time of new beginnings.   I am grateful for a new year of life and the beginning of the upcoming school year.    

Picture of the school yard and beyond.  It was taken with my new phone.  In celebration of my 43rd birthday, I  have finally entered the digital age and now have a smart phone.

  My goal is to resume weekly updates now that I am back in Haiti.  Thank you for everyone who takes the time to read this and for all who wished me a happy birthday, for all who pray for me, and are encouraging and supportive in so many ways.  I am grateful for you.  Many blessings!