Yes, I Can!

           Yea!  I did it!  I finally proved to myself that I can function in this country with the language skills that I have.  I have always doubted myself because so often when I speak Creole at the orphanage the kids and staff look at me as if I’m speaking Chinese with four heads.

            Twice in two days, though, I have attempted important things on my own and been successful.  My motorcycle has been fixed—for the most part—but I still need practice.  I went out yesterday, and the thing died on me.  I know the battery is bad as is the crank (the ignition switch doesn’t work because the battery is bad).  I asked for help on the street, but the nice guys couldn’t do anything.  I asked them—in Creole—if there was still that motorcycle “shop” down the way.  They said “yes” and pointed me in the right direction.  When I stopped where I thought it was, it wasn’t there.  But . . . no worries!  I asked the lady where it was, and she told me to keep going and to cross the street.

            I found the guys and was able to ask for help, explain what I needed, and understand the response.  I definitely need a new battery, which will only cost me 1000 gdes (about $16 American).  I hope to make it back tomorrow or Thursday to buy the new battery.

Phonsley waiting at the doctor's office

Oskar and Phonsley--I was
bored, so I took pictures
through the window.

            Then, today I took three of the kids to the orthopedic doctor to get a script for x-rays for them.  The nice doctor—Dr. Nau (pronounced “No”)—and I spoke Creole.  I understood him, and he understood me!  Sweet.  He sent us to the x-ray place right away, but we just missed the technician . . . he headed home 15 minutes early because he didn’t want to be out in the rain.  No big deal, but I was able to talk and joke with the other workers about the place closing up shop before the official closing time.  Again, score for my Creole skills!

            I am in no way fluent, but these small successes give me so much confidence that I can live and work in Haiti without being dependent on others.