Our life was good; everything I had hoped for. I stayed home with our three boys. They worked part time. My husband’s career was successful, and we had a great group of friends but something in me felt there was more we were meant to do. I wanted my children to grow older, not just educated and well-liked, but also kind, welcoming and knowing about the bigger, more different world outside our small town in Alabama.
One day sitting in my car waiting outside the school I heard a radio telling about foster care. The message hit me differently that day. I was moved by the statistics: the need for families and the call to care for children in need. I could not ignore it.
I started calling local churches to find a foster care or adoption ministry where I could help. Surprisingly, there were none. That is when my husband and I decided to go through foster parent training. People said that his business would go on a downfall and that we were making a huge mistake, but we felt this was the right thing to do
After facing many problems we got our license we did not request a specific race or gender we simply trusted that whoever came into our home was meant to be. I was nervous but also felt peace that it was time to step forward.
My husband was out for a jog and I immediately texted him: he is here. I watched him through the window as he excitedly ran back home. That moment will always stay with me: a child born into confusion had found safety and a father ran to meet him.
Adjusting in a life as foster parents was hard. The system was broken and often lonely. I faced critical whispers and rejections. But we held onto hope and faith for every harsh moment that we had to face. There were also people who stood by us. They supported us and loved our son deeply and truly.
Eventually, it became clear that this baby boy was meant to stay with us forever. While we were overjoyed, there was also sadness, especially for his birth mother; she wanted him to know she loved him and I respected her courage and sacrifice. Adoption is not just for people struggling with smooth. When a child needs a home, it can be a beautiful option for any willing family.
We once searched for many families; they have since opened their homes and hearts, and our group continues to support foster children and their helpers.
After 900 days, our youngest son finally became legally us. His three big brothers stood in court, raising their right hands, promising to love and protect him. It was a simple moment filled with so much love and hope. That day was not just a celebration for our family but a sign that even in a small town with a complicated past, love and hope can grow if you were brave enough.
