As mother’s day approaches, it is only natural to think of my mom. My mom was my greatest cheerleader and prayer warrior and I miss her everyday.
Mother’s Day also brings to mind other amazing women in my life. I think of several Sunday School teachers that poured into my life as a young girl and teenager. Two of my mom’s friends became like second moms to me. I know I could call them if I need anything! When I was 13, God sent me a wonderful gift and to this day she is my best friend. Youth group held strong friendships and as we recently met for dinner, we were all reminded of the bond of friendship.
The group of women that I work with on the mission field is such a blessing as we partner in ministry. There are so many friends that have made such an impact. I cherish the precious memories of the women who have molded me into what I am today.
While living in Swaziland, I have had the opportunity to meet some amazing women. I love to sit back and observe these ladies. Honestly, these women make me feel like a wuss! They can pick up big, heavy pots and make cooking over an open fire look easy. Even stirring the rice and pop in these pots takes a lot of upper body strength!
Most women are the primary care givers of their homes and the backbone of their communities. They are very resourceful and hard working. They have a God-given talent to balance anything on their heads AND walk with boxes full of fruit and vegetables…
…and firewood!
Many times they have a baby tied on their backs with a blanket while accomplishing their daily duties! That is multi-tasking!!!
Due to the high rate of HIV/AIDS, many parents have died while their children are very young. Commonly grandmothers, called “gogos”, are raising their grandchildren. While visiting homesteads this past December, multiple ladies requested prayer that their days may be long so they can raise these kids. The reality is that these kids would have no one if something happened to their gogo. One gogo we have the priviledge of knowing has had ten or more kids living in her homestead. Many of the kids are not related to her, but she cares for them anyway. Most Swazi women are not materially wealthy, but they share what they have. What an example of what Christ meant in Mark 12:31 when He said “Love your neighbor as yourself”.
In honor of mother’s day, l challenge you to reflect on how blessed you are and be thankful for the women that have been a part of your lives. Please join me in prayer for the women of Swaziland that God will give them health and strength to continue their selfless sacrifice for their homesteads and communities. I pray that God will help me learn from the amazing women in my life and in return be the woman God called me to be!
Thank you for following this journey. Please pray for our family as we prepare to go back to Swaziland this week.
Because of Him,
Michelle
P.S. One last photo of Landon trying to learn how to balance a box on his head!
