"The quality, not the longevity, of ones life is what is important." - Martin Luther King Jr. . The quality of Jonathan Parker's life is so clearly evident in the heartfelt stories, photos, videos and messages of unwavering love and support shared over the last couple weeks. Although it's been one year since Jonathan's life on this Earth ended, there is no doubt that the positive legacy he's left behind will endure for lifetimes to come. . Jonathan's legacy lives on in a particularly beautiful way in the remote village of Pong Ngen, a hill-tribe community nestled deep in the Chiang Dao National Forest of Northern Thailand. . The Lahu people of Pong Ngen are very proud of their distinct culture, which consists of a unique language, dress, oral history, animist beliefs, musical instruments, songs, dances, and so much more. However, as the community becomes increasingly integrated into Thai society, these cherished traditions are at a risk of being lost with each passing generation. . In response, the Pong Ngen Community Center was founded to proudly display Lahu history and culture, so that future generations will grow up appreciating their cultural heritage. The community center now has solar electricity, a loud speaker for community announcements, and a visual exhibition highlighting Lahu history and culture. . In the week leading up to the Community Center's opening, Jonathan's father, David Parker, and Veronika Volovik, traveled to Pong Ngen with Jon's close friend, Rey Jaffet - a talented artist who wanted to paint a lasting mural that would honor both the community and Jonathan's memory. The community decided that the mural should represent the village's primary source of pride and income - bamboo rafting. . As you enter the Community Center, you are greeted by a commemorative plaque with the following message: "The Pong Ngen Community Center is dedicated to the people of Pong Ngen, in loving memory of Jonathan Parker. By opening your village to him, you opened his eyes and heart to the world. And through Jonathan, the eyes and hearts of many people are now opened." . Forever a GIVE Legend. Thanks, Jon. #givevolunteers #givelegend #givethailand (at Chiang Dao, Chiang Mai, Thailand) https://www.instagram.com/p/BuW3PtmALrs/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=cycbyext09au
