As Mothers day rolls around I can’t help but think of the legacy my parents have given me. I would not be where I am today with out their support. I’m so fortunate to have grown up in a loving home with my Mom and Dad. They encourage me to go for my dreams, while at the same time reminding me of where I come from and what I truly love.
Last year God gave me an idea during my time in Swaziland and a project was born…
http://morganmckeown.theworldrace.org/?filename=learning-to-die-part-2
We wanted to give the children in Nsoko the gift of knowing their parents legacy before AIDS steals that opportunity away.
In the summer of 2009, we were
able to complete over 30 legacy books for families in Swaziland. Since
then four of the parents we worked with have passed away from AIDS. This year we
hope to extend the project to more families. I’m planning a young adults trip back to Swaziland this July and one of our goals will be to compile more legacy books.
http://morganmckeown.theworldrace.org/?filename=leaving-a-legacy
If you would like to support me personally so that I can lead this trip donate online through the “Support Me” link on the left. Then click “Staff Support” on the drop down menu.
Each Legacy Book…
Gives a mother or father with HIV/AIDS peace as they prepare for death.
Allows an orphaned son or daughter a tangible way to know their parent’s love, stories, hopes and dreams.
Provides beautiful portraits of loved ones for a family who likely has no photos.
A legacy book costs about $30 to compile. Will you consider sponsoring one today?
To give a Legacy Book click here: http://www.razoo.com/story/Legacy-Books
Here are some of my favorite excerpts from our 2009 Legacy Books, as you read these please pray for the families in Nsoko, Swaziland.
All the family photos on this blog are by Paloma Ramsey.
Nkosingiphile Mamba �” Father to Sphumelelo Mamba �” 6 year old son
“Sphumelelo
I love to be with you. I am happy that you are alive and that you are
never sick. When I am gone I hope that you remember how every day I
gave you sweets and carried you around. I also want you to remember
that when you came home I asked how your day was. I care about you.
“I hope that you have a long life. I think that you will grow up and
become a teacher because you have a very good mind. Sphumelelo, I
cannot live without you. It’s a joy to spend the day with you, hear
your stories, then put you on my shoulders and listen to you laugh. My
legacy to you is that you would put God in everything that you do and
follow Jesus, and that someday you would love your children the way I
love you.�
Shongani Dlamini �” Mother to Nzuzo a 9 year old son and Nokwenza a 2 year old daughter.
“When
I was young I wanted to be a dentist. I was able to finish school and
learn English. My dreams changed after I had children, and life changed
even more once I was diagnosed with HIV, now I cannot work. Today I
find joy in counseling others about HIV/AIDS.
“Nzuzo and
Nokwenza I hope that you know to watch out for HIV/AIDS because it
kills. I want you to learn that Jesus is the answer to everything. If
you know those things you can have successful lives. I desire for you
to know the right way so you can learn from my mistakes. I hope you
live better lives than I was able to.�
Nurse Mngometulu �” Mother to Candy and Zenda, daughters, 11 and 8 years old
“Candy,
I love to dance with you, especially when there is a traditional
wedding. Zenda, I love it when you sing. Girls, I want you to know that
I tried really hard to take care of you and I want you to continue
going to school. Above all else know that God is alive and He is able
to help you.�
