I sponsor a Muslim child through World Vision named Mayecor. My measly $27 a month helps to pay for his general well being--health care, food, clothing, and education. He lives with his family in Senegal, plays soccer, and tends the cows. Last fall, I wrote a letter to Mayecor, and since he had asked what my favorite season is (question he has asked again), I sent him a big yellow leaf from my front yard to show that I like autumn. Here is Mayecor's response which he wrote in French and had translated by a volunteer. I particularly like the phrase "I wish you the best of spirit and mind."
Dear Robyn,
First of all it is a real pleasure and a joy now for me to write you, but just to thank you for the nice card, the leaves, and so the intersand letter. I am very happy when I received all them. I send you my most warmest and sincere greetings. you have somb (sent?) to me. It is for me a truely touched my heart. Me and my family are go well and pray for you each day that God bless you and protect you against the mail. At the moment it is very hot at the day and sometime very cold at night. We are at the beginning of dry season many farmers begin at working in they fields. We see many big trees losing the leaves and so we are many wind at the day. Last week we are playing in the playing fields a excellent soccer of match which neighbouring. I would like to know what is your favorite season? I wish you the best of spirit and mind, and so good luck. I look forward t hearing from you soon.
Comments
I know that you won't mind me asking you to pop over to my Cheltenham blog just to put the face of a little UK missing girl in your mind please? The more who see her, the more chance she can be found. She could now be anywhere. Thanks Robyn.
But in all seriousness, that's quite lovely, Robyn.
Still, I'm sure a lot of his sentiments are floating out there, untranslated and unheard.
What a wonderful relationship to nurture.
Next time you might want to ask him about Senegalese music. It is very popular in Europe, thanks mainly to the fabulous Youssou N'Dour.
Sounds like you'll also have to learn about soccer.
This is a lovely post. Thank you.
I love it when translations have quixotic surprises. Occasionally, if using (or playing with...) babelfish online translation service, I'll translate the given translation back to english and it's usually an absolute riot.