I am getting some questions about the bigger picture, looking past this extreme crisis and the longterm implications for Haiti.
I am no expert! I have definite views and passions about development work which I would hope for Haiti. These views are certainly not uniquely my own.
Truly successful development work is one which enables a people to improve their own situation. The goal being to work oneself out of a job, not to increase dependence. It is my small experience that the people of Haiti know what they need and are certainly capable of brainstorming and suggesting solutions. What they lack is resources but they are a resilient and proud people and certainly deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.
And yes, the situation is ripe for corruption and abuse. That's where responsible giving on our part plays an important role in future rebuildling efforts as does prayer and thoughtul intervention.
I appreciated Secretary of State Hilary Clinton's remarks yesterday after meeting with Haitian President Renee Preval. I think her comments about working WITH the Haitian government toned down the impression that the US might be racing in and taking over. Even if the Haitian government is severely strained and inadequate, Haiti is still a sovereign nation.
Hope that helps!!!
I've also attached an article written by Charles Parker, Producer with Samaritan's Purse Broadcast department, whom David is working with. It gives a pretty good idea of what David is seeing and doing.
Appreciating your interest, care and prayers.
Cindy, for David and our sons, Josh and Nate
Article by Charles Parker, for Samaritan's Purse:
http://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/Samaritans_Purse_Today/post/report_from_haiti/Some of David's photographs are being posted:
http://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/In_Pictures
http://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/In_Pictures
Providing clean drinkng water:
