Day One in Haiti: Dogs, goats, and chickens oh my!

Day one of anything new is always scary, wouldn’t you agree? First day at a new job, or first day of school its always a little overwhelming. Well, picture this: what about being in a different country?
            The Abundant Life group from Simpsonville, South Carolina arrived today with a team of fourteen people in Carrfour, Haiti. None of which, with the exception of one, knew what to expect. The first thing the team and I noticed was the heat, as soon as you step off the airplane its like a face smack with humidity. As we made our made way to customs it completely hit; this was going to be a completely different thing. People are practically grabbing your bags from your hands trying to just make a few bucks by carrying your stuff for you. A little scary, huh?
            We then walked to meet our project leader, Neil, and rode a school bus through Port-au-Prince. It was extremely overwhelming and automatic culture shock. Have you ever been put in your place and you automatically feel victimized? Well, speaking for myself, that’s how I felt just on that short hour ride. You rethink everything you take advantage of then and there. Even the simple thought of a simple paved road, which there of none of here. Also, how do you feel about trashcans? Ever thought about how thankful you are to have a place to throw your trash into? Well, now I am, because here all the trash is thrown onto the ground. We are talking mountains of trash all along the streets and roads.
            We arrived to base, a very nice home used for wedding receptions, which has three beds and two baths. Oh, and I couldn’t forget to mention the electricity! How would you feel if the government controlled when you had power? One day you could not have it, and one day you could have it all day. You never know.
            Shortly after that we rode to an orphanage, and met and played with about twenty boys. They were all so sweet and wonderful. Ever met someone that just blows your mind? Well, that’s how all these boys made my team and I feel. Can you imagine not being promised a shower a day? What about three meals a day? How about air conditioning? Makes you double think everything, again, huh?
           
Well, day one was overwhelming and we were all yanked out of our comfort zones. But it’s a little to late to rethink coming, haha. I am so pumped, and I CANNOT wait to see how the rest of the week goes. I already know God will bless this team, and change us all to be opened up and be able to bless people all through this trip.
 
 
P.S. To explain the title, there are chickens, goats, and street dogs just roaming the streets. Not something you see everyday in the streets, huh