Devastation after the earthquake, credit Time.com
You’re sitting there, reading this blog, having a good day or bad, but odds are you are in no way prepared for your world to crumble around you, to lose your home, your priceless mementos, your precious loved ones. Everything.
Neither were the people of Haiti when the earthquake hit their little country two years ago. They had no way of knowing that on this day their lives would crumble, just like the buildings around them.
But this island is full of survivors who are proud to rebuild, doing all they can to put the pieces back together, not just of their homes, but their lives.
One of the struggles is finding work, which is why people like Willa Shalit and Heart of Haiti impress me so much. They’ve created jobs for the people who weren’t sure how they’d pay for food each day, much less rebuilding their homes or schools. Heart of Haiti is a project that puts artisans of Haiti to work creating beautiful items that are then sold in Macy’s stores and online. I have a piece–a beautiful tray– that I keep in my dining room. I see it more as a work of art than something to serve anything on, so it has a place of honor on my buffet. I know every time I see it just how hard some people work to get through each day. As I think of gifts of love for Valentine’s Day, items like this come to mind as ideal presents for the people I love because I know about the love behind them.
It’s hard to think about what the people of Haiti have been through in the last two years. And what they will continue to go through as they grieve forever their losses.
They’ve learned to appreciate what matters most.
I hope we can learn from them.
Willa Shalit, the lady behind Heart of Haiti, credit Heart of Haiti
{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
I can’t believe it’s been 2 years!!!! Looks like there is still total devastation there. But i think it was like that before as well, with less chaos.
Desiree…thank you so much for writing this and you will go to Haiti! On our next trip. Let’s put that out in the universe!
Danica…I’m sure hoping so but right now March is not looking good. Will you remind me of the dates? I really, really want to get down there and get their stories of survival on tape for a little documentary on fortitude!
What a great organization. Thank you so much for sharing about this. It is amazing to see how they are starting to rise from the ashes of such a terrible tragedy!
You are welcome! The same gal, Willa, works with the Rwandan Peace Project. Both amazing groups. Have you worked with them before? They’d love to have others spread the word if you want!
Desiree, Thank you for the heart you have for Haiti ~ Your appreciation for the artistry of Haiti means so much …. It will be great to travel there together sometime soon. Until then, you will be 100% with us in spirit!!
Thank YOU! You inspire so many and I am eager to make the trip and meet you and the talented artisans face to face one day soon!