Settling In

Bonswa!! I hope this post finds you all loving life and finding amazing adventures. As I am now wrapping up the first month of this several year journey, I have been reflecting on the nature of many aspects of places we call home. While there is still a lot that can feel isolating in life here in Haiti, I am beginning to feel settled in here which is a great feeling. I have always said that there are very few material aspects of our lives that make us truly feel “comfortable.” In the knowledge and confidence that God is everywhere in His redeemed creation, my level of comfort in a place has always been determined by the people around me and a belief in what we were working for.

From a material standpoint I have usually said, “good people, good books and good coffee… are all that we need.” Earlier this evening several long term residents of Haiti and I sat down over dinner to discuss a book titled “Erasing Hell” by Francis Chan (the book review will be posted here as soon as we finish). The opportunity to spend time with good people will always be one of the greatest blessings of this life – no matter what cultural barriers exist. Last Sunday I was also blessed to have an opportunity to spend the day at a beautiful beach house here in Haiti that belongs to new friends. In this post you will view a couple of underwater pictures from my first snorkeling excursion – also my first jellyfish sting (very mild) of this new adventure. Though times for recreation may be infrequent, I look forward to many diving trips and chances to explore the beautiful waters around Hispaniola – including the famous pirate haven. . . Tortuga!!

Provision often takes many forms and I am thankful for provision in the form of good people this last week. My partner in work with the deaf community in Haiti left for a much needed vacation on Wednesday, which means I will be working solo here in country for the next month. While there are great people supporting me from Frazer UMC, 410 Bridge, and friends and family from home, I am excited for the challenges inherent in continuing to settle in and finding my own way here. For now, it is friday night which means that the kids at the orphanage are just beginning a fun movie. I am off to sit and laugh with them for the rest of the evening!

Wishing you all the continued experience of the abundant grace and peace of our Reigning King!

Kyle