We took the boys to a number of stores shopping for clothes and shoes.  They were absolute troopers and we decided to give them a treat at Baskin Robbins.  They, in turn, gave us a treat that we really were not prepared for – they shared stories from Ethiopia that we did not know.  In fact, we still marvel at how they were able to communicate so clearly with such a light grasp of the English language.  We had hoped that we would hear their accounts of early childhood over the coming months and years – essentially as soon as they were able to share and comfortable with us.  We did not expect to get so much so soon.  Here’s a brief summary:

• We asked them how they knew so much Spanish.  Over the previous few days they had used some Spanish expressions and we were curious how they knew them.  At first we thought maybe they picked it up from “Dora The Explorer” but they’d only seen a couple episodes, if that.  That might explain “hola” or “buenos dias” but not “un poquito” used in proper context.
• They proceeded to tell us that, prior to going to “Tezera’s House” (Widows & Orphans’ Home), they were at another “house” (and they told us the name of the woman who ran it).  At that house, many families came from Spain and the “babies go” to Spain.  The families from Spain would speak to them and teach them Spanish.
• They also told us that “BIG” (meaning many – not a reference to size) babies get families in Spain, but no family for Fraol and Behayelu.  They told us that they and their sister were sad at this.  (note: We knew that the boys were in a previous orphanage that the government closed, but we did not know the connection with Spain.)
• They continued, telling us that after they went to Tezera’s, “Joy (Joy Casey, from the Adoption Ministry of YWAM) came, took photos and then… We have family!!!” (huge gestures and amazing smiles)  “Everybody happy!!!”
• They also told us of other “family members” and we’re trying to learn the nature of those relationships.  Our intent is to help the boys process their memories as they grow older and as they develop better English comprehension. 

We were incredibly blessed and blown away by their (especially Fraol’s) ability to communicate fairly complex subject matter AND by their comfort in sharing this with us.  And we thank God for making us available to hear this.  What a treat (and it was worth a long time sitting with two of us per chair)!

 We have been overwhelmed with the love and support we have received from family, friends, and acquaintances regarding our adoption. Everyone has been very positive, but many are quite puzzled as to why we, in our “right” minds, would be pursuing such a thing at our age. We understand.

Getting here has been a process that God began long ago. God has given us a passion for children, a desire to parent, an ability to run a household and train up kids, and – most recently – a burden for Africa and its precious children. Those that have heard or read our adoption story know that God has undeniably called us to this assignment. He’s been preparing our hearts for years and this is the precise way and the exact timing He has chosen for us to touch two more children’s lives. What an amazing thought! God has molded us into this shape and when He called, we answered! That is why we are doing this. Bottom line – it was God’s idea!

There is no retiring or taking it easy in God’s economy. We are to be active and willing vessels in meeting needs, however that might look in each of our lives. I’m so grateful that we were acutely aware and open to God’s call. People often tell us “those boys are so lucky; you’re doing such a great thing.” But in all candor, we’re not being altruistic here. We desire to be in obedience to God because being used by Him is the greatest blessing we could have. We know He asked us to adopt these boys.

What is God asking you to do? How is He asking you to serve? Will you allow Him to lead? Will you humbly comply when He tugs at your heartstrings? Remember that when God calls, He equips. May you be encouraged as you walk in faith for His glory!