How Could I Not Do It?

I’ve invested over 17 years of my life working for change in Haiti. Anyone paying attention to international news knows that the people of Haiti have suffered tremendously during the past two decades. Given the political instability, continual economic decline and hunger, combined with natural disasters, I shouldn’t be surprised when I’m frequently asked, in one form or another, “Doesn’t it feel like a lost cause?” Perhaps the version that feels more human and respectful is “Why do you do it?”

Alex Myril (pictured in back of photo with black t-shirt) is among the many friends who comes to mind during these moments. He’s 21 and the oldest of 6 children. While he lives in Port au Prince now so that he can go to school, he grew up in a poor family in the remote countryside. Alex is finishing his last year of high school. Less than 1% of students make it to this point given the innumerable obstacles. There are as many as 150 students in his classes and because there is not enough chairs and benches, he usually has to stand for hours on end. Imagine American high school students being expected to stand for class!

Just thinking about his daily commute tires me: heat, dust, smog, and traffic jams while crammed into subcompact cars or in the back of pick-up trucks. Most are ill repaired and breakdowns are common.

The oldest of 6, the family continues to rely on Alex to bring needed food and supplies home, a 7-8-hour roundtrip. With no modern appliances or money to pay a maid, Alex cooks for himself and washes his clothes by hand. On weekends, he stuffs himself into one taxi and pickup truck after another to make his way to Mariaman, a rural Port au Prince suburb, for choir practice on Saturdays and Sundays.

As Director of a children’s choir, in addition to writing songs about social change and teaching them to the children, he also meets with parents and has become involved in many more lives.

I witness the consistent and honorable choices that Alex makes with his time and limited resources. He works tirelessly and his grades are great. Whenever I see Alex, his smile and grace radiates a joy and faith that I can only aspire to.

Having lived in Haiti for nearly 15 years I have countless examples of Haitians who rise above incredible odds to develop their potential, help others and to improve their country. Any sacrifices that I’ve made or make pale in comparison.

I am indebted to Alex and so many others for their examples of courage, determination and long-suffering. So when it comes to investing my life toward positive change in Haiti, how could I not do it?