When people think about mission work, they often imagine what we bring—supplies, support, and skills. At its core, mission work is about going out into the world to spread the Gospel by being the hands and feet of Christ—serving others with compassion, humility, and love. But as only Christ can orchestrate, the ones sent to serve are often the ones most deeply transformed.

Those of us who have had the privilege of visiting the children in Haiti know this to be true. Every smile, every conversation, every moment spent in their world has offered powerful, often unexpected lessons about life, resilience, and faith.

As board members, volunteers, and visitors, we’ve returned home not only with memories but with a renewed perspective on what truly matters. In this month’s blog, we’re reflecting on a small sampling of insights and wisdom we’ve gained from our time with the children of Haiti—lessons that have shaped how we lead, serve, and live.

Here are just a few of the many lessons we’ve learned:

Lesson #1: Don’t Judge a Book by Its Cover (shared by Anna Guy, CHM Board Member and Treasurer)

I met PanPan (Marie Joe) on our first trip to Haiti in 1998. At just five years old, she stood out as a natural leader in the village. During lunch and clothing distributions, she’d get in line, receive her item, disappear briefly, and return to the front—again and again. At first, I assumed she was being pushy, even giving her that “I’m watching you” look. But we soon learned the truth: PanPan was quietly gathering supplies for the many siblings and cousins she lived with. She wasn’t taking for herself, she cared for others.

That moment taught me not to judge too quickly and reminded me how servant leadership can come from the most unexpected places. Today, Marie Joe serves as the Haitian Director of the orphanage. Watching her grow into the woman God created her to be has been an incredible joy and blessing.

Lesson #2: Choosing Joy in ALL Circumstances (shared by Renee’ Pleasant, CHM Board Chair)

My husband and I visited Cabaret Haiti Mission in December 2014. As an educator, I was drawn to the opportunity to connect with children; my husband came ready to use his handyman skills to serve wherever needed. What we didn’t expect was how deeply the children would leave their tiny heart prints on our lives.

At the time, I had been asking God to help me release judgmental thoughts and truly see people through His eyes. That prayer was answered almost immediately. From the moment we arrived, I was struck by the overwhelming poverty—and yet, just as overwhelming was the presence of pure, unshakable joy. At first, I assumed the two were at odds with each other, as if joy and poverty couldn’t possibly coexist. But as the days passed, I realized: there was no conflict. Joy wasn’t competing with hardship—joy was winning.

The Haitian people radiated joy not because of what they had, but because of Who they trusted. It was a powerful reminder that joy isn’t tied to comfort or ease. Joy is a gift from God that can flourish even in the most challenging circumstances.

Lesson #3: Compassion is More Than a Hug (Mission Trip member- December 2014)

On one of our trips, a quiet, stoic man joined our team. He didn’t come to lead worship or play with children. He came with a toolbox and a heart ready to serve. While he didn’t speak the language or display outward emotion, his actions spoke volumes.

One morning, he picked up a paintbrush and carefully restored the orphanage gate—each stroke a sign of dignity and care for the place the children called home. Another afternoon, he helped saw and secure new boards to repair a broken chicken coop—ensuring the children’s flock would be protected and productive.

In these simple tasks, this man’s compassion poured out—not in words, but in work. He showed us that compassion doesn’t always come wrapped in hugs or spoken prayers. Sometimes it’s found in paint-splattered hands and the hum of a saw. His service was a beautiful reminder that love looks different on everyone—and every form of love matters deeply.

These are just three of the countless lessons we’ve learned over the years. Each trip to Haiti leaves an indelible imprint on our hearts—filled with moments, both big and small, that shape who we are and how we serve.

Have you served in Haiti or experienced a mission trip that changed your life? We invite you to share your reflections in the comments below. Let’s continue to learn from each other and from those we serve—because the lessons never really end.