This first time we visited the clinic, of which I had seen photos and imagined for many months, I was filled with joy. The packed waiting room was gently being managed by the health agents, prescriptions were being filled from a well stocked pharmacy and a closed door symbolized the sacred place of a physician listening, diagnosing and healing. Kay Lasante is a place where Haitians receive dignity, as well as medical care.
Former President Aristide writes that "there will never be enough education or money for the poor in Haiti, but there will always be enough dignity." The health agents have taught me this through the years. They are not highly educated, nor powerful in their positions, but foster a culture of dignity by giving it to others as well as demanding it for themselves.
For me to be emotionally present, I had to let go of the American part of me that wants to fix things. This is the part that wants to feel good that I have helped "enough." There will never be enough money for Haiti, and there may already be too much "help" from well meaning relief. It is dignity, not money or help,that I can offer. God came and became Jesus among us; to be human suffering. "He is the quiet dignity in face of suffering, the mother who can't give food but love, see hope through pain, courage in face of violence," says Aristide.
On the plane on the way home, looking out over the tent cities that millions of Haitians call home, I was surprised to bring to mind the smell of my daughter's hair. Loving and embracing the human spirit in Haiti, calls me back to the love of my family. What a gift it is to be human; to share in these most precious treasures of love and dignity.