God is unveiling His plan for us to adopt our child(ren).
In June, when we started the adoption process, we found out that there would be a workshop that was offered in October, that would be needed to complete the Assessment (home study) that wouldn't be offered again until February of 2012. Two weeks prior to the workshop we got our official invitation, and were talking about whether or not we should go. We had planned to wait until February because of financial reasons. It was $300.00 to attend. BUT....then, God brought something to our attention. He reminded us that at that point in time, he had provided us with about $350.00 (ish) through our "Adopting for a dollar" event. We then realized that God had given us enough money to attend the workshop!
We were thinking about waiting until more money comes in, before we spend money we have, so that we could make sure we would have enough to continue the process. However, God said, "I'm providing for you now, and I will continue to provide for you as we go along. Just trust me." So, we went!
Outside of simply being a requirement, the workshop was VERY helpful. Our eyes were opened to a lot of new things. We saw that the main purpose of this process is NOT about us, and our selfish desires, but about what is best for the child(ren) that God will be bringing into our lives. This seems like common sense, but we were really challenged to truly evaluate why we want to adopt. We realized that we want to adopt to fulfill the wants that we have to be parents, and also to give a kid the best life possible, and show them the love of God. God brought to the forefront of our minds what is at the core of adoption, and parenting in general. And that is that it's ALL about the children.
We learned that it's important for us, as adoptive parents, to make memories for the child(ren) we bring home, while we are in the country. For example, learning about their culture, the environment they have (so far) been brought up in, their rituals, their routines, who was caring for them etc. are important. This gives the child(ren) a sense of identity.
Other things that we found to be important are: taking time while we are there to be with our child in their native country. Doing things in the city, or wherever it is they are from. Doing their normal cultural activities, and taking pictures (if possible), which gives them documentation, and concrete things to hold on to, about the beginning of their life.
Overall, it was really refreshing and helpful to see & learn from all the different angles of adoption.
If you have questions or want to know more about our past couple days at this workshop, let us know!
God is good. He cares for His children. He leads us beside still waters, and makes us to lie down in green pastures. He is generous, gracious, powerful and sovereign. He has provided for us in time of need through people. And so we thank God for using you, and we thank you for being obedient. God is good.
Love,
The Svaleson's
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