February 5, 2009

not the best day. we finally lost Kenson. He just refused to do the work, making errors he knows how not to make in math, refusing to take instruction or encouragment. Gary finally tried to send him out to work with Antonio to mop and sweep in an attempt to get his attention and he walked out of school. He just wasn't going to let anyone have any authority over him, he WILL run his life and isn't concerned about the consequences. His aunt came down to school within a few hours and basically pleaded with us to take him back, but Kenson has made it impossible. I pray he will find a way to learn life is more than having your own way and refusing to improve yourself in any way. I fear he will wind up hurt or in jail, but those are the choices he has made. Coincidentally, we received another high school student to take his place today. Literally, Kenson left and Jeph took his desk. He seems more agreeable and appears to want to learn, at least initially.

it is hard to realize how much these kids go thru, being tossed around from family to family, country to country, totally different school systems and all. Then the family wants the school to fix all the problems they have created. We have several students who are liable for the same outcome as Kenson unfortunately. They seem to be getting it though, and maybe seeing one of their "comrade in arms" leave school and knowing he will not be allowed back in will set them straight in some way, or at least get their attention. Today is a day when we know we can't fix everything and can't make everyone's life turn out better. Maybe this is a necessary step for Kenson, and hopefully it will avoid those steps for others who see it.

on the up side, I started working with the ESL class with Daniel and Kevin. D/K wanted someone who is a native english speaker to converse with them to gauge their progress. Some did pretty well, others who are first time english learners obviously struggled some, but all seem willing and eager to learn. I will be going down to their class at least once a week to just talk with them and help them learn more english. A good thing I hope.

it was very cool this morning, probably the coolest morning at any time in Haiti. mid 70's, breezy, cloudy, very much like fall weather in the midwest. Haitians were walking around with jackets, blankets, whatever they could find to keep warm. I, on the other hand, was very comfortable! Hope all is well back in the midwest, I know weather has been bad recently. One of the other missionaries here said he has been here so long now, he doesn't think he could endure a midwest winter, he is from western Missouri. I am beginning to believe him! take care to everyone.

Djebenis tout moun

almost forgot. a SHOUT OUT for Mindy Foster, my favorite missionary fund raiser! Mindy had an idea for fund raising for me and did an AWESOME job, raising almost $900, which is deeply appreciated. Hey Mindy, I owe you a dinner whenI get back ok? (not a $900 dinner though ok?) :) and many thanks for those who send their money each month, I can't do this w/o you. Thanks so much for the support of my church in helping with my bills at home and those who go above and beyone in supporting me here. You are part of this, know that. you are reaching the world thru what you do to help me stay here. thanks so much.