I have always had a soft spot in my heart for foster children. When DH and I had been married just a few years, I saw a “Wednesday’s Child” story on tv. This particular boy stole our hearts, and we considered looking into adopting him. He was a precious teenage boy who needed to be loved, and we had a lot of love to share. But we had a young baby, and this boy had medical disabilities. Would we be taking something from our own child to take this responsibility? Could we afford to provide for his medical needs with just one income? I am not sure we ever made a decision about this but through discussion just gravitated away from the idea. Sometimes I wonder what happened to him.
My heart has always ached for those children who have no one to love them or whose parents are unable to take care of them. It is just heartbreaking that so many are denied a fair chance at life with their families. How can adults mistreat innocent children? Yes, children can be annoying. So can adults!
A friend didn’t sit around wondering if she should become a foster parent. She dove in and did it. She was quickly approved and was given two precious little sisters, one a newborn. I watched in amazement as she pulled together a nursery practically overnight, temporarily providing a safe harbor for them. During this time I saw a story on TV about a teenager, Mackenzie Snyder, who had set up a foundation to give backpacks to foster children. Being a bona fide bag lady, it broke my heart to learn that most foster children were carrying their few belongings from place to place in trash bags. I told my friend that if she ever had a foster child who came with no backpack or duffle bag to let me know, and they would not leave without one.
To make a long story short, my friend was given another infant to care for. He had a few medical needs, and she took very good care of him. While her goal is to provide a nurturing, safe place for children in need, this one stole her heart. After a long wait, she is completing the adoption process.
Congratulations, my hero friend! I am so happy to share this joy with you. You are a GREAT mom to an exuberant, very happy little boy!
Happy Mother’s Day!
photo posted with permission
It’s official! The adoption is complete. Congratulations!
Being a foster/adoptive parent is a special calling from God. I admire those who have answered the call.
Awwwww! You are such a sweetie!