Upon receiving the news of a devastating 7.0 magnitude earthquake striking Haiti on January 12, 2010, I could never have imagined that Haiti would become a country I’ve frequented and grown to love. I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve journeyed to this remarkable nation since my initial visit in 2012. Nevertheless, what remains vivid in my memory are the encounters with talented artisans and the countless lessons I’ve gleaned from my travels to Haiti.
6 Valuable Lessons Acquired Through Years of Haitian Travel:
As we approach the 10th anniversary of the Haiti earthquake, I anticipate that there will be extensive coverage of the occasion, delving into topics such as poverty, the mismanagement of aid funds, and ongoing political turmoil. It will showcase the remnants of buildings reduced to rubble, serve as a stark reminder of the staggering casualty count (approximately 316,000 lives lost), and rekindle the profound sadness we felt for Haiti a decade ago as we ponder what might have been. In commemoration of this anniversary, I find it fitting to reflect on the insights I’ve gained from my voyages to Haiti, all while sharing some of my cherished photos from this country I hold dear.
1. Embrace Your Curiosity:
My initial voyage to Haiti in 2012 was driven by a desire to explore the nation beyond the narratives depicted in the news, following the catastrophic 7.0 earthquake that rocked the island just two years prior. People who had experienced Haiti firsthand spoke of its beauty and the warmth of its people. Inquisitiveness compelled me to embark on this journey and uncover the truths about the country and its inhabitants.
2. Advocate for Truth:
Over the years, as I worked alongside artists from various regions of Haiti, I witnessed positive transformations occurring within the nation. Infrastructure improvements, a burgeoning interest in Haiti as a travel destination, and the true splendor of the country now flourish across social media platforms.
3. Anyone Can Be a Philanthropist:
My philanthropic journey began after five years of visiting Haiti, culminating in a trip planned a mere two weeks following Hurricane Matthew’s devastation along the southern coast. Friends who wished to contribute entrusted me with the task of delivering direct aid. Some purchased essential supplies from my Amazon Wish List to replenish those lost, while others provided monetary contributions to help offset the expenses of transporting four sizable duffel bags filled with supplies.
4. Challenge Your Comfort Zone with Your Kids:
After my initial voyage to Haiti, my daughter Emily expressed a desire to accompany me on my subsequent trips. It took several years before she could join me, but when she did, it became one of our most treasured mother-daughter adventures.
5. Invest in Women:
In response to the question, “Who runs the world?” Haiti’s answer is clear—women. I have had the privilege of meeting exceptional Haitian women who are extending a helping hand to their fellow women, aiding them in breaking free from the shackles of poverty.
6. Practice Conscious Giving:
Whether it be through international travel or supporting global initiatives from home, there are methods to ensure that your acts of generosity are done mindfully, with enduring benefits in mind.
To delve further into my experiences in Haiti, I invite you to explore these posts:
- “How a Single Trip Led to 6 Years of Traveling to Haiti”
- “Why Taking My Daughter to Haiti Was an Investment in Her Future as a Global Citizen”
- “Tough Lessons Learned About Conscious Giving from My 6 Years in Haiti”
- “Traveling to Fond des Blancs, Haiti to Visit the Haiti Projects Community Library”
- “Why A Bee Sting Allergy Couldn’t Keep Me Away from Haiti Projects Beekeeping Project”
- “Haiti Projects Pad Project Educates Girls in Rural Haiti About Puberty, Periods & Pads”
Should you desire additional insights into Haiti, all my writings concerning this nation can be found here.
