Remember a while back when I said I felt like crying? I have been holding a mirror up to myself to see what I'm made of. It's not always pretty. Sometimes I don't like what I see.... but I know there are good qualities in there, too. Why was I doing this soul-searching? Well... hubby and I are going to start the training process to possibly become foster or adoptive parents. I have been examining myself to try to understand what my motivation is. I don't want to do this for the wrong reasons. And I also have been trying to figure out if I am a good enough parent/adult/role model/mentor to take this on. If we foster or adopt, we will be taking in a teenager. So - you can see that we've had some things to think about. And it has been some deep stuff to ponder and has made me feel close to tears a lot of times. It's an emotional thing to think about!
Tonight we went to an orientation meeting. It was kind of my thing; hubby went along because he loves me, and because he understands there is a need. By the end, we both heartily agreed to sign up for the training. There still is no guarantee that we will go all the way with this and find a child who will be a good fit for our family. But we are taking the baby steps along this journey... and trusting God to help guide us as we go. And that, my dear friends, is the true story of why I have been feeling weepy!
16 comments:
{{{Carol}}} I sort of had a feeling you were thinking about this.. I am really happy that you are contemplating such a thing... Wow!
wow, that's a big step. good for you!
I read your blog post to my husband and kids and we all cheered! I am proud of you just for exploring this. Regardless of where this journey takes you, know that just by learning more about kids who are in need of permanency and talking about it makes a difference. If you were here, I'd be throwin' my arms around you and squeezin' right now :)
Good for you, Carol!! Just take one step at a time and see what happens.
I'm honored to call you my friend! Know that you are on my prayer list. Inner reflection is always a good thing.....I wish you well in all your endeviors...if it incledes anotehr child in your future or not. God Bless, BrendaLou
What a wonderful unselfish thing to do. I taught teenagers for 30+ years and I love their passion and eagerness. Teenagers can be so great and most are just looking for acceptance. GO GIRL!
Since you love giraffes, check out Southwick Animal Farm in Mendon, MA..they just had a baby giraffe born. Her name is Molly! They might have pics available.
Have a great day!
Carol - you are one amazing woman. Go for it!
What a journey, Carol! Good for you both for listening to your truth and following it. . . that's something our world so needs.
Forgot to mention this. . . if you'd like a quiet and nurturing place to reflect, I highly recommend Clare's Well - the retreat place I go to in the summer that I mentioned at book club - it's in Annandale. Their web link is on my blog page. It's the most wonderful place, and Pete would be welcome as well (it's marketed more to women, but men are completely welcome). You'd love the sisters - they are so loving (and socially progressive, too!).
Carol - that's awesome! What a great journey to embark on! Please keep me in the loop every step of the way - being a foster mom is something I've always thought I would be good at! (It's a matter of convincing the hubby...) I'm so excited for you - if I was there I'd give you a huge hug - you would be a great foster, or adoptive, mom!
Blessings to you and the hubby!
Good luck with this! My parents were foster parents for teenagers for a couple of years, so I have a different perspective on it. :)
I can't wait to hear about your journey and your experience!
What a wonderful thing to do. I'll have you in my prayers as you start out on this journey.
Hugs Jan mac
And your tears are truly relevant. If it weren't worth shedding tears...it wouldn't be worth the joys either. God bless you and your husband and your family on this journey, Carol!
I've thought about this briefly but our life is so busy right now with travel that I know it's not the right time. Good luck, I hope it works out for you.
Good luck with exploring this! My husband and I went through the process and it was a great learning experience, even though we only fostered once. I'm sure the right path to take will make itself clear.
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