I know an individual that is dedicated to her community. Not only that, but this individual sees beyond the borders of the community and will risk taking a trip to Haiti to help others. Furthermore, this individual is selfless, modest and ready to continue making a difference. All these qualities may sound like a seasoned adult, but in fact the individual I am referring to is La Porte High School senior Abbi Fryer.
Fryer has reshaped the typical high school image and has visited Haiti not once, but three times; the most recent time being this past Thanksgiving. She first made the journey her sixth grade year and again her eighth grade year. The experiences and stories Fryer has are beyond the grasp of many other students her age. On each trip, Fryer and her team managed to accomplish many goals.
“On my first trip we filmed a short video about short-term missions to Haiti, ran a Vacation Bible School for the children of New Life Orphanage in Jacmel, Haiti, and showed the kids they are loved and important to God and us,” she said.
Fryer was obviously young on her first trip and did not immediately realize the purpose. At the time, she was not cognizant of the impact it would have on her life and about her future trips. But sure enough Fryer returned yet again with a broader perspective.
“On the second trip, we gave the kids small presents and showed them Christ’s love. The most recent trip we brought down supplies for the kids: dresses for a feeding center, small gifts for the girls and boys of New Life Orphanage and again showed the kids they are loved and important.”
These trips have helped to illuminate Fryer on deeper issues. She notes that Haiti is a truly devastated country stricken by “poverty, homelessness, starvation and desolation” and yet despite all of this, she still sees the beauty.
“It can be seen in the smiles of the natives, or the deep blue ocean expanding beyond mountains," Fryer said. "I can honestly say it is one of the most beautiful places I have been, partially because its beauty is so rare. The people are beautiful; their spirits radiate warmth and love. Although Haiti is very warm in temperature, having those kids climb in your lap six at a time to brush your hair out of your eyes or give you a butterfly kiss is truly awesome and worth it.”
Yet Fryer was cognizant of the dangers posed by visiting a third-world country. Fryer and her team were once visiting a church while Haitians were rioting outside. Guns were being fired and bottles thrown, yet instead of letting the experience ruin her spirits, the riot strengthened her faith.
“Even though this was frightening, our group trusted that God would deliver us safely back to our compound where we were staying; it was awesome to feel a peace."
This mature attitude favored Fryer when it came to learning a lesson. With each visit Fryer’s eyes were opened to a different way of living, one that we Americans should pay attention to.
“I learn every time that life doesn’t have to be like busy, rich America. It can be simple. I also learn from the Haitians who rely on God every day to supply them with essential needs we take for granted.”
Fryer has carried such a humble mentality back to the United States, where she remains active in her school and community, including her position as the La Porte High School French Club president. Her involvement in French actually became a useful skill during her latest trip.
“There were other missionaries there as well, who were giving away glasses to the people of Haiti,” she said. “They needed someone who spoke French so they could diagnose their eye problems and give them proper prescription eye glasses. I was able to translate for the group and talk with the local Haitians about things as simple as their children or favorite foods.”
Beyond French, she enjoys gymnastics, cooking, reading and, above all, smiling. This is evident to anyone she meets; her smile and positive attitude are truly infectious. She plans to continue spreading hope and faith next year when she will attend Indiana Wesleyan for nursing.
When the time is right, Fryer plans to return to Haiti and use her nursing degree on medical mission trips.
The radiant teenager hopes that more students will help the community and those less fortunate. She closes the interview with a piece of advice worth taking.
“If anyone is ever interested in a mission trip, I strongly suggest going,” she said. “You never know what you can learn or what experiences God could have in store for you. Please pray for the people of Haiti. It is an extremely corrupt country that has a long way to go. The people are great though. God is everywhere.”