The day before we left Haiti, we were able to hike up to the well-known Citadel. We were extremely excited since we were going to see a piece of Haitian history, and it was an opportunity to spend time with our team, including the amazing translators. Initially, we were told the hike was about 45 minutes. We should have known better, since you calculate time as follows: Haitian Time + 1.5 to 2 hours = Actual Time. I'm all about physical activity, but I have not been on a hike like that since doing the climb up the volcano in Chile, in the snow! It is insanely hot and humid in Haiti and doing the steep hike up for close to 3 hours was intense.
The time was full of beautiful views, quality time with our Haitian friends and a thorough understanding of the Citadel. It was built in the early 1800's as a haven for the Haitian king. Haiti was still newly independent and they were trying to protect themselves from attacks of the French. It was built high atop the mountain, where they could be secluded, yet have a view of the waters for intruders. The story is anti-climatic as they never had to use the Citadel since the French never came!
Nonetheless, making it to the top of the Citadel was quite a feat for us and worth the blisters, sweat and exhaustion. The view of Haiti from the Citadel was out of this world. The marathon hike brought things full circle, as it reminds me of the struggles during our time in Haiti. We pressed forward, had faith and we were no doubt blessed at the end of our journey.
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