Changed Haiti

I have been back in Haiti for 2 weeks now, and am beginning to understand the changes that have taken place as a result of the earthquake. As someone who lived and worked here for a year before the earthquake happened, it is easy to see some changes, but others are hidden much deeper. I can see the devastation in terms of buildings, rubble, and seas of blue tarpaulin that make up people's tents. I can see how little people have as whole extended families live on a patch of ground 2m by 3m. I can see the dirt and dust, more of it than before, and people washing in the street trying to maintain whatever dignity they can. What is harder to see is the bewilderment as they wonder if this is how they will live forever, and the sense of hopelessness as they try just to get enough food for each day. Many people seem lost. Some think this is the end. And yet there is real hope: the pride in staff as they work, wanting to do the best job they can; the smile that lights up a child's face as I pass by; knowing that whatever I do may be so little, but it better than doing nothing at all. Haiti has changed beyond recognition, but my job here now is to bring hope and to do what little I can that will change someone's life for the better. I am glad to be here!