Outside of Me

By Tamari Miyashiro (2012 USA Women's Indoor Volleyball Silver Medalist)

 

Shortly after the Olympics I had the opportunity to visit Haiti with some of the staff and volunteers of the non-profit organization, Child in Hand. Although I’ve been to many countries in the world traveling with the USA National Volleyball Team, being there and observing the daily lives of the Haitian children in Port-au-Prince was a humbling experience.

 

As I arrived I was immediately amazed by the beautiful children. Their spirits were full of energy, grace, love, kindness, curiosity and playfulness. Despite not having many tangible possessions they enjoyed being kids.

During my quick three days in Port-au-Prince, I was able to visit three orphanages that Child in Hand works directly with and spent time drawing with the kids, playing volleyball and soccer, introducing them to baseball and badminton and teaching some of them how to throw a frisbee. The younger children loved to be carried, and it was amazing how they would follow the volunteers wherever we went. Seeing them smile, laugh and have fun gave me great satisfaction.

 Several miles away, Child in Hand made major progress in the building of their Multi-Sport Facility. Someday this will be home to many Haitian athletes playing sports that they love, exercising and at the same time having a blast.

 

 

The children's eyes reflect the hardships of the past and present, but also the dream of hope for a better future. When confronted with the realities, I look at my own life and ask, am I doing as much as I can to help?

 

Child in Hand is just one of many groups trying to make a difference in the lives of the people in Haiti. I believe that they are trying to set a unique foundation so that we can make a difference in the lives of these children for a long time. I am grateful and thankful that I got the opportunity to reach out and would love to return again soon.