Neil

One particular and unique part of our Haiti journey is all of the wonderful people we have been blessed to labor alongside of in this quest to bring light into darkness. Both here and those who have travelled with us into this country. The complexity this land brings against all you have grown accustomed too and know is at once staggering and sensational. It will try the core of a man or woman. It will make you know your soul. Parts you will find wanting. Your amour will show tainted, the challenge is presented no matter your place in life, prepare to be exposed! And with all who have come, we have been blessed to witness courage, wisdom, insight, and unexpected delights as people discover their unique ability to interconnect with these amazing Haitians. Everyone possesses skill sets to touch people in our lives, but we often become constrained by insecurities and failed attempts. In Haiti it seems you don't have to worry about failed attempts, because the people keep coming back for more of you. Neil has been another such blessing on this trip. He is non stop joy, his view of life is an amazing rainbow reflecting off rippling waters, and you never quite know what color may show up in any given moment, but it often brings a joyous humor and comic relief at the most opportune times. He has grown more temperate on this journey, has adapted like a chameleon, and has been a champion of being there just when I need him. A real Godsend, and unrelenting in his service to the team, our projects, and making Haitian friends. Because of his life, he is a person who enters this arena ready in a way few are, and I feel deeply he has a choice whether or not to let this journey affect him, more so than perhaps anyone else I have ever brought. He has risen to this occasion with incredible ease, has gained a steadying balance and been a real blessing to our team. I shot a photo of him today with a welder who has done many projects for us here, and who has never had a welding helmet. As we contracted him today for building us another door at the property, Neil presented him with a brand new helmet. It was a priceless moment. As I looked into the eyes of the welder, I could see the damage inflicted by years of exposure to the burning rays. I have watched this man weld holding a broken piece of welding glass, and often seen him weld with nothing for his eyes. Neil cannot fathom on the same level as I the way he change a man's life today, but he did, for in those burned eyes something else showed through today, gracefulness. Uncharted by human hands, unexpected grace at an uncharacteristic moment brought about by a willing heart with a simple vision, to touch a few welders with an incredible gift in this country, a welding helmet. We are grateful for Neil and the addition he is bringing to our team. We will look forward to any trip he decides to join us on, God uses people to touch people, and know tonight that includes you as you read this blog! Take a risk, take a chance, reach out to someone who needs a little hope, they aren't just in foreign countries, they are often right next door. Grab a Neil moment, step out and step up! Be counted, it's not always easy or even immediately rewarding, but your heart will be gratified every time you do God's bidding no matter the outcomes, for you will know deep down you did what was right! Thank God for the Neil's of this world, otherwise it could be a rather boring   place! Thanks for all the encouraging comments, the team has been encouraged and moved by your words of affirmation and assurance of your prayers. Blessings once again tonight.