Four Haitian-American families were able to reunite this summer in the Black Hills of South Dakota...and it was the highlight of our summer! 4 of the children had lived together at BRESMA in Haiti and were airlifted out together following the eathquake in 2010. These 3 families had not seen each other since leaving Pittsburgh that week. The other 5 Haitian-born children had not lived at the orphanage at the same time, but they shared the same "history." This made the reunion a unique and special gathering, for them, their 4 American-born siblings, and their parents. :) It was so nice to just sit back and spend time with so many people who all understood the experiences/struggles/successes!
The kids re-connected immediately. They reminisced about foods and pasttimes from their time in the orphanage. They bragged about how their American moms still cook them rice and beans now. They talked about how certain subjects in school were so hard. But, most of all, they just hung out like typical American kids! All being talented in sports, they stayed up late closing down the basketball and volleyball courts. The resort allowed for us to gather in one spot and still watch about 5 activities at once. We piled into our cars to hike around Mt. Rushmore and visit Reptile Gardens one day. Otherwise, lots of conversation, games, food, and play. Parents were able to share strategies, insights, and fears...knowing they were safe and in empathetic company. :) One mom said of her child, "This is the happiest he has been in a long time." After returning home, Ange-Laurette said, "Can we do that every year? That meant a lot." We plan to have routine reunions every few years, at varied locations... hoping to make it possible for many other families.
