As I sat there that day during my high school years, I was unaware that a seed was about to be planted. I can’t remember if I was in church, at school, or with my youth group, but I remember the exact moment that the words sunk into my heart: “In China, because they are only allowed one child, hundreds of little girls are left without families every year.” And for the first time, years away from motherhood, I considered the word ADOPTION.
The seed planted was watered many times over the years. In college, I discovered a love (passion, even) for world geography and history. I took for fun (yes, I’m a bit crazy like this) History of the Far East. I worked with children professionally as a piano teacher and voluntarily at my church. In 2007, I was finally transformed into a mother with the birth of my eldest daughter. Deep within me, the planted seed sprouted, waiting, in a kind of calm stasis.
Then, in 2011, the twins were born. As we rejoiced in their arrival and made the adjustment to a family of 5, I made an amazing discovery. The sprout blossomed. It burst forth into a bloom (I like to imagine a radiant purple) . . . and I knew that my next child will not come from my body but will be placed in my arms somewhere across the sea, in the land of dragons and emperors.
The Chinese philosopher Lao-tzu said “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” This is my single step – my declaration that 2013 will see us doing mountains of paperwork and making life-changing decisions and trusting God for financial provision to bring our next daughter home. She may already be waiting for us or she may yet to be born, but she will be known even in her birth mother’s womb before I have the privilege of knowing her and holding her close.
Another word for “adopt” is “embrace.” I love this! A single step. Into a journey, that while it may be long and hard and sometimes frustrating, will end in a glorious embrace!
The seed planted was watered many times over the years. In college, I discovered a love (passion, even) for world geography and history. I took for fun (yes, I’m a bit crazy like this) History of the Far East. I worked with children professionally as a piano teacher and voluntarily at my church. In 2007, I was finally transformed into a mother with the birth of my eldest daughter. Deep within me, the planted seed sprouted, waiting, in a kind of calm stasis.
Then, in 2011, the twins were born. As we rejoiced in their arrival and made the adjustment to a family of 5, I made an amazing discovery. The sprout blossomed. It burst forth into a bloom (I like to imagine a radiant purple) . . . and I knew that my next child will not come from my body but will be placed in my arms somewhere across the sea, in the land of dragons and emperors.
The Chinese philosopher Lao-tzu said “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” This is my single step – my declaration that 2013 will see us doing mountains of paperwork and making life-changing decisions and trusting God for financial provision to bring our next daughter home. She may already be waiting for us or she may yet to be born, but she will be known even in her birth mother’s womb before I have the privilege of knowing her and holding her close.
Another word for “adopt” is “embrace.” I love this! A single step. Into a journey, that while it may be long and hard and sometimes frustrating, will end in a glorious embrace!
I am so excited for you and your family! It was so wonderful getting to read about the heart that you have for your daughter. <3
ReplyDeleteI love that your "blossom" is radiant purple. Excited to follow your journey, and be part of it when I can.
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