When we arrived there around 9:30 that night, people were just starting to gather in front of the stage. This camp was a mini citi - rows and rows of large white tents - out in the middle of nowhere. In the distance, you could see the sparse lights of PAP - a distant memory of the tenants previous life - a constant reminder of the place they used to live before January 12th. However, on this night that marked the 4th month since the disaster, they could put it all behind them and enjoy a celebration of music. For a few hours, they could forget reality and enjoy themselves. I wandered around the camp full of so many people and so many rows of tents. Of course, I received lots of stares. And, I also received lots of smiles. When someone started looking at me, I would smile. Then in the black night, I would see a flash of white as they smiled back. I greeted them, took photos of them as requested, and gave a few people a chance to 'practice' their english. And, most importantly, I danced.
I danced my heart out - sweating, smiling, just enjoying the moment with the crowd. A couple of young girls joined me (as well as many other kids) and danced with me. Tracy was 11, and she spoke a bit of English. She taught me a few dance moves, and then she left. After the concert, she came to see me again. I asked if her mama and papa were here, she said yes. I wanted to learn more of her story, but we had to leave. I have her photo in my camera, but for now, her face is etched in my mind. She was beautiful! Another 13 year old girl grabbed my hand after the concert and walked around with me while I waited for the AP to do their work. She held my hand until I left. I don't know what she wanted from me - just to feel okay? To ask for something? I'm really not sure, but I would have held her hand for hours if it would have made her feel better.
Everyday I am here in Haiti, I am reminded of all the things for which I am thankful. I am thankful for my life and what God has given me. I am thankful for this opportunity to experience a country after a major disaster. I am thankful to see the smiles on people's faces even when their lives are in disarray. I am thankful that other people care for Haiti the way that I do.
This post brought tears to my eyes! I could totally see, smell, and hear the night! I'm sure you know I love RAM and what an experience it must have been to spend some carefree time with the people of that camp, as they have very few of those these days! I am thankful that you love Haiti the way you do:)
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