Without a mother

Rosalie grew up without a mother. Her mother had passed away when Rosalie was 15 months old, which started a life including foster care, school struggles, a step-family, and lots of rejection and put-downs. As a young adult, she found pleasure in the things the world has to offer.  But then, she found more. She was wonderously and gloriously saved, and God eventually guided her into missionary service with NTM. God used her in a special way in Papua New Guinea and then as a consultant to help other missionaries with literacy.  Now she is retired, but not really…. Many had encouraged her to write her life story, and her book is currently in the process of being published.  

Rosalie and I (Ruth) worked together about 8 years ago to develop a Literacy Manual as an aid to teach missionaries how to set up a literacy program for tribal people.  So when Rosalie needed someone to do a final read of her book, she asked me.  

One day when she called about the book, she asked if I’d been to Maine lately. (She is also from Maine, and so that is another of our connections.)  Well, just that day I’d been looking at flights to Maine as my mom had some physical setbacks.  My sister and I wanted to go and spend some time with her.  The cost of flights shocked me. So my response to Rosalie’s question was that I wanted to go to see my mom, but the cost was prohibitive.

The next day, Rosalie talked extensively with Dave.  She had decided to give me the $400 fee for the round trip flight to Maine.  And the reason was because she grew up without a mother and she wanted me to be able to see mine. 

Thanks, Rosalie.  I had a great time with Mom and my sister. Got to see lots of family. And I was so encouraged at the progress that my mom made, even during that week we were with her.

By the way, Rosalie’s autobiography is charming. I highly recommend it.