Reflection: Emily Sobeck

            Bonsoir! This year I was extremely excited to return to Cap Haitian. I was curious if the girls would remember me, if they would like the stuff I brought them, and if we could pick up where we left off. When the truck pulled in and I jumped off, I was immediately greeted by several of the girls and my heart was immediately warmed by their embraces. They remembered me. J When I left Haiti last year I felt as though I could say I “knew” some kids in Haiti, leaving this year I can honestly say I have friends of the heart at EBAC. We were able to move past the “getting to know you phase” and spend time joking, playing games, dancing, and catching up. It was as if I never left. I couldn’t remember all the details that the girls remembered. For example, one girl wanted to play a Haitian card game with me in the same spot we played last year! The students at EBAC have a special spot in my heart. <3

            As many of our team members shared earlier this week, we were able to serve at a much needier orphanage – Peace and Joy. I can honestly say, aside from marrying the best guy in the world, that taking those kids to the beach was one of the best experiences of my life. The belly laughs, salt water gags, smiles, and death grip they had on our arms and backs when each wave came crashing down will be something I will never forget. Rocking precious Berlin to sleep and holding her as she drifted off melted my heart, as I figured she probably has never been physically rocked to sleep like most babies in America are every night. There is plenty of progress needed to be made at Peace and Joy, but I know the Lord used us to be his hands and feet this week and ridiculously bless those kiddos.

            One of the most “unique” parts to this trip was the crazy horseback ride we did to get to the citadel- 2 hours up and 2 hours down. Sketchy saddles, malnourished horses with no horseshoes, rocky and steep pathway, and lots of Haitians running alongside of us will be an experience I (and my bottom) will never forget. Conversations on Thursday night typically started with, “My butt hurts,” “I have a rash on my legs from those horses,” “I feel like I was hit by a car,” and “I don’t think I can move my neck.” It was a beautiful ride for the eyes….but a rough ride for the tooshie. ;-)

            As we set out to depart tomorrow I am grateful for the opportunity I had to serve, and I am reminded of the importance to keep EBAC, Peace & Joy, and the full time missionaries here in Haiti in my prayers. I am also challenged to continue to support these places and individuals while back in America. There is so much that can be done from home, but yet our busy lives and materialism often push the things that are really important in life aside. The kids and adults I shared the past week with have encouraged, uplifted, and inspired my heart, and I can only pray that I was able to provide a glimpse of the abounding love the Lord has for each and every one of them.