A Mountain-Top Experience

Ayiti, land of high mountains

Haiti literally means land of high mountains. Its name is a testament to its most beautiful asset. After every mountain is...another mountain. We hiked these peaks to visit the family of Emile, our translator. After a long and bumpy ride (half of which was crossing a running river or driving in a dry river bed), we disembarked and started the trek to their home.  I had a light backpack, Ellie a cake box, Emile's wife (8 months pregnant) a pot of mangoes, and his brother two 12-packs of soda, both of the latter carrying their goods on their heads. Thankfully, I beat Emile's wife up the mountain (I know that isn't saying much). An hour later, we were greeted by the sweetest family!

Emile, Merdjreens, and me stretching our legs (above)
Ellie, the cake bearer (right)

Emile slicing his homegrown papaya

At his home, we met extended family, enjoyed lunch, and conversation (with Emile translating, of course), all with such warmth. We saw the heart of Emile had been borne out of this heritage of godly and faithful family. We met his sister who lives in an adjacent house but who is incapacitated and often expressionless. We prayed over her with the family. And then it started to rain.

Emile's father cutting a walking stick for me

Although rainy season had just started, we weren’t expecting it to start raining so early in the day. We decided that we should set out for the truck while it was still raining because if it continued, the trail would become muddy and the roads difficult and possibly impassable. The best part was the walking stick Emile's dad made from sugar cane. We continued to enjoy its sweetness throughout the following week. Even with the aid of a walking stick, I was bested by his 68-year-old father carrying a two-year-old. Ouch! And he probably didn’t have sore legs the next day.

Emile's extended family

Neighborly women with Emile's mom in the background

Another friend we met along the way