Outreach

Lend me your undivided attention for the next ten minutes to share a soul quenched experience with you.

I hope to move you with this blog. If I don’t, I at least hope to inspire you to do something good for someone in need. I often talk about finding oneself. I want you to know that, I too am on the same journey as you. I do spend time in devotion in search for guidance to my destiny. It’s no secret that my creed is to make a difference in people’s lives. How do I know? I’m glad you asked. There’s a certain level of contentment that overwhelms my soul when I do something for someone in need. It’s the type of joy that money cannot buy.

Six years ago when I started my journey at NYU, I remembered praying asking God to let his will be done.  Most of all, I prayed that I may be used for the greater good in whatever field I studied. Six years ago, If anyone told me I’d be doing a Dental outreach in Haiti, I probably would have laughed. The thought that God would use me is mind-blowing. On the other hand, the older I get, the more I pray, the more I am learning to allow myself to be available. If not me then who? Seriously, why not me? 

For those of you who follow me on Instagram, you may have seen the videos and photos. Those of you who don’t, February 24th I did a Dental outreach in Haiti. This was something I planned to do since December of 2019. However, because of the instability in security, I postponed it for this year. This February I was hit with another roadblock. I found out that gang members were kidnapping people, violence was pronounced and the war between the government and the people was beyond controlled ( especially during the carnival season). I shared the news with a few people and they advised otherwise. They warned me not to travel at this time of the year. However, I couldn't stop myself if I wanted to. 

I challenged myself. I purchased my ticket, gathered the gifts and headed out to Haiti. Masked with uncertainty, wrapped in confusion it was then or never. As often as I go back to my country, this trip was a bit different this time around. I wasn’t as comfortable as I usually am. No matter how calm I was, In the back of head, there was still the thought of things going left for a lack of better words. The process of discovering oneself takes trial and error. It requires mental and emotional strength. It requires faith in the unseen. That, my friend is what I experienced.

The Team:

Special thanks to my father who never questions my ideas, but rather challenges me to be the very best version of myself. To my amazing cousins who organized the goody bags, to my chauffeur I admire your courage. To my chef, I simply wish I can bring you back to NYC with me. To my friends in NYC and MIA- thank you for your prayers and support. I can only pray that God repays you all for the amazing work each and every one of you have done to make this outreach a success.  

The Day of the Outreach

Like any other day, the sound of the birds singing woke me up. I prayed, took a shower, ate breakfast and headed out to the school. Upon entering the school, I noticed the kids playing in the yard. The younger ones wore uniforms while the older ones wore regular clothes. They were so excited to see me as I exited the car. The warm welcome made it impossible to not feel at home. At that very moment, I couldn’t help but remember- I was one of them. Finally the principal of the school ordered everyone to go to their designated classroom. I was able to teach 8 classes of 46 students. I taught them the importance of Dental Hygiene, demonstrated proper brushing and flossing techniques, educated them on the role of teeth and the effect of improper mastication, last but not least, I applied fluoride on each student. Each student received a goody bag with toothbrush, toothpaste, mouth rinse,tongue scraper and floss inside. The outreach was a success. I felt so honored to be the one in a position to help. To God be the glory. I have plans to do more in the future. I know my work is not done.

Allow me to remind you that, people who watch you judge you on what you do, not how you feel. When was the last time you helped someone in need? It doesn’t have to be something plush. You’d be surprised at how something small can make a magnificent difference in someone’s life. I challenge you to practice the art of giving back. I promise it’ll bring you an awe-inspiring feeling you’ve never felt before. 

Comment below. I’d love to hear your thoughts and don’t forget to subscribe for more updates.