Leaving a lasting legacy

‘GREATER love hath no man than this, that he lays down his life for his friends.’

The well loved Bible scripture is an apt reflection of the selfless actions of caregiver Nomusa Nxumalo, who last week sacrificed her own life in an attempt to pull a toddler out from a burning building.

The end result was catastrophic – the deceased Avumile Nene (3) found in the arms of his mentor and teacher, who sadly could not escape the flames of death.

The actions were nothing short of heroic, displayed unspeakable compassion and were a fitting tribute to caregivers across the country.

Her very presence at the centre was because she denied herself higher education and took on a job at a young age, so as to care for her siblings.

All too often a handful of caregivers make the news for the wrong reasons – abusing or grossly neglecting those entrusted in their care.

There is often a negative perception that the social development system is fraught with corruption, particularly grant fraud facilitated by ‘selfish’ caregivers who simply don’t care.

The noble sacrifice of Nomusa, who worked at the Mseleni Child and Youth Care Centre for the past 17 years, is a beacon of hope and inspiration in Zululand.

Described by her peers as possessing a ‘heart of love’, nothing depicts this reality more poignantly than Nomusa’s brave act, which will be etched in the hearts of those who knew her forever.

It is hoped the traits she died for will be emulated by her peers so that the legacy of genuine love, compassion and sacrifice lives on daily.