Like an Onion

Like an onion with its paper thin layers - each of which can be peeled back to reach its heart.

This morning I wake in the half light before sunrise, I round the corner to the bathroom next door, reach for the light switch and then pause. "Wait a second" I say to myself, I can see easily enough without it. Then I recall, when I first came to Haiti, there was no electricity after nine pm throughout the city..... so there was no choice - no electricity anywhere in the city.

Back in 2000, when I wanted to take a shower, hot water wasn't readily available. "No problem" I thought. I'll improvise by taking a "BWCA shower". A pot of hot water from the kitchen, a second empty pot, mixed with cold water in the second pot and pour over your head.

This morning I bathed as most Haitians do - who simply use a face cloth, towel and cold water. No electricity used, nor wood burned, or worst of all charcoal. One has to let Haiti happen to you if you want to grow.

Coming to Haiti will change your life, but only if you are an onion...... with many layers that are slowly peeled away - so Haiti can reach your heart. - Don Kelly -