Thursday, January 31, 2008

DD Dliwayo School


As I sat down tonight to go through the film for the DD Dliwayo School I didn't expect to get emotional. Something came over me though. The acute pain for those children when there just came rushing back over me. I was reminded of their discipline, their resolve to learn under the cirmcumstances, and their overwhelming joy.
May I say again how proud I am of all the people that saw something special in those kids and gave without reservation. My heart is truly full with gratitude for knowing each of you, even if its only by name, email address, and T shirt size.
Once again, here's a glimpse of the lives you've touched.

The school's principal:




























I have learned so much through this experience. By nature I'm a very hesitant person and have a strong fear of failure. I almost chickened out on doing the donation idea, just because I feared that the whole thing would bomb and no one would donate. I remember finally get up the nerve to click "publish post" in blogger for that post. My fears quickly melted away as my heart was warmed by your donations within minutes of posting. Because of you, my heart will be little less fearful the next time I have a cool opportunity to share. People honestly want to help those in need and often just need an outlet to channel their feelings of goodwill and charity.

The school is still sorting through how they are going to best spend the money we raise and I should have an updated in a few months as to how the money was used.

Three more items of business:
1. If your T-shirt didn't make it, please let us know so that we can send you another one ( email josh@abryanphoto.com). I am so so sorry if it hasn't come through yet. Since I have never done a web store and had to set it up with a fulfillment company after the project was over, it took us longer to get things out. You all have been so understanding and patient throughout this whole process. Thank you for being so understanding.
2. For those that bought the custom prints, they are currently in the hands of the brothers Hanson and should be getting framed soon.
3. Someone recently asked me when I was going to post the pictures of all those that donated. I had forgotten that I never posted it! To check out the supporters, click here.

Thanks again to all of you. You have enriched my life.

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10 Comments:

Blogger Laura Reaux said...

By nature I'm a very hesitant person and have a strong fear of failure.

I seriously could have written that myself. And aren't you thrilled that you stepped out and took that leap of faith? I am, and I'm certain the school is. What an incredibly amazing opportunity you had to go on that trip. That trip helped me to start thinking about how many people around the world need our help. Thanks for sharing!

January 31, 2008 7:54 PM  
Blogger lisa said...

reading that was a blessing :)

it's amazing what God will do with small steps of obedience.


i just watched a video interview of bill hybels and bono (it's on youtube) and bono really put into words what i've been feeling... it's not about charity, it's about justice.

i pray that you won't let this experience fall by the wayside but that you will continually seek justice for brothers & sisters all over the world.

January 31, 2008 9:13 PM  
Blogger Kary said...

THANK YOU for inspiring and leading us towards such a great cause!

P.S: Have I said I wanna be like you when I grow up? lol

January 31, 2008 9:54 PM  
Anonymous Liz said...

Just...Wow

Bryan those photos are amazing, especially the black and white one of the kids.

Like Lisa said it's all about obedience.

When God challenges you to do something great He will always give you Grace to do His will.

Thanks for the opportunity to help and thanks for the t-shirt - it rocks!

February 1, 2008 3:23 AM  
Blogger Lulla said...

thanks for sharing with us your experience.

February 1, 2008 4:42 PM  
Anonymous freeer said...

they are currently in the hands of the brothers Hanson and should be getting framed soon.

you put the words "hnson" nd "soon" in the sme sentence? tsk tsk tsk.

but seriously, THNK YOU for giving us tht outlet you mentioned.

(nd sorry my comment is lcking letters, but t lest ll the hnson fn club members who red this will know who i m :D)

February 1, 2008 4:44 PM  
OpenID jerzshortstuff said...

Thanks for all the pictures and thoughts! I am so glad you took that risk and asked us for money! I am so happy I was able to make a contribution.

God Bless and always have faith!

February 1, 2008 9:56 PM  
Blogger A Bryan Photo said...

You all continue to encourage...thanks for all you say!

February 3, 2008 8:28 AM  
Anonymous Shay said...

That's me and my husband on the tire swing! We love our shirts! Thanks for the opportunity!

February 5, 2008 9:30 AM  
Anonymous Shari said...

Your photo's of Hanson and the kids in africa are so amazing. I'm so embarassed the photo I sent is such poor quailty. I didn't think it would look that bad. But I'm still glad I was able to donate some money to these beautiful children. Thank you for making the choice to ask us to help.

February 8, 2008 6:53 PM  

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