Forever Family Day

Time is either flying or standing still.

Two years ago today a very frightened little girl in a very hot, very humid Chongqing, China was placed into the waiting arms of her Mother. And while time has flown, the memory of that first moment remains frozen in mind and heart. Its impact forever changing us...

Eyes can say so much.

We would be the first family in our group to hold their daughter. We have a video of the occasion though we've never shown it to anyone nor have Alyson and I ever sat down to watch it together. I share this with you. It was brutal. Never have I grieved more for a little one, never have I grieved more for my wife.
I will always remember looking into the eyes of Jim as he handed back the video recorder, a soon to be Dad that had graciously volunteered to film our family event. As he gently put a hand on my shoulder, Jim's eyes revealed fear and sorrow, compassion and love. I am certain our experience caused the other Waiting families to hurriedly assess their expectations and preparedness. I am equally certain each secretly prayed their Forever Family Day would not go as ours. And their prayers were answered...

So much has changed.

I can't help but compare our little one to that of a rose, revealing more and more of her personality and beauty as petals softly unfold.
How far we have all grown since that first moment together. You light up a room Alyzabeth. Your gentleness has made me a better person. Your strength inspires. We all love you.
Today. Tomorrow. Forever...

Has it really been 2 years? September 16, 2008. Our Forever Family Day.
My, my how time flies.
peace
fm