It was about 10 days ago that we got Liddia and it has been a white knuckle take your breath away roller coaster ride. The kind that leave you dangling on the precipice, anticipating the big drop one minute, and the next minute you are doing loopty loops through the air.
We have felt emotions from pure joy to sheer terror.
Now that we have gotten past the sheer terror part, we can feel the seeds of love begin to sprout. Love helps you look past any short term problems, tantrums, or whatever. There is a calm assurance in love.
Isn't there a scripture about perfect love casting out all fear? (1 John 4:18) That seems to be what is happening. Before the love started to sprout, there was room for fear.
Love is not instantaneous, it takes time to sprout and grow. I don't think "love at first sight" exists. Perhaps that is what we naively expected, to instantly feel that overwhelming love that parents have for their children. This sounds bad, but at first it was a bit like tending someone else's child. And in this case there is also the fears of attachment problems, bad habits from the orphanage, etc.
To suddenly be thrown into the parent role of a three year old who doesn't know you, and can't communicate with you is a bit terrifying for both the parent and the child.
We talked about some of the 'sheer terror' in the faith and fear post a few days ago. The fear was all too real the first few days, and compound that with being alone in a forign country, unable to speak the language, along with some homesickness.
It feels so good to feel the seeds of love begin to take root! The heart of these parents are turning to this child, and the heart of this child is turning to these parents (isn't there also a scripture about that somewhere? :)
God is teaching us how to love a child that He has loved from the beginning. It is all about love. Asking for it, nurturing it, learning to extend it, and being greatful for it. Everything goes better with LOVE.
(We met a very kind brother at Church today who took these pictures and then emailed them to us. Thank you brother Hackworth!)
What experinces you are having! It is great to see your new experiences daily. Keep up the good work.
ReplyDeleteNordell
Brendon and Rachelle,
ReplyDeleteYou two are such great people!! I have been following along with you on this incredible journey and my love for you has grown. You are both such great examples of Christ and I appreciate your thoughts and feelings. You inspire me to be better. All seven of your children are blessed to have you as parents! Keep the faith and remember that there are many back home praying for you and cheering you on!! Sending you our love, Ryan and Jen
Brendon and Rachelle,
ReplyDeleteWow! If anyone can do this it is you two and your amazing boys. Ethan is always so sweet to keep us posted about how things are going with you while you are away. We are praying for you and Liddia. What a journey you are on and we are all here to help in any way we can when you arrive home.
Love,
Blaine, Laura and the Curtis Boyz
She is beautiful! We cannot wait to meet her! Logan and kaitlyn keep asking when u are coming home so they can meet their new cousin Liddia! We miss you and are excited for you all to get home!
ReplyDeleteLove,
Frank and Nissen
She is so beautiful and I am so happy that you are doing better and enjoying the area better. Mom
ReplyDeleteHer eyes are amazing! I'm sure that love is starting to grow in her too, and she'll probably surprise you with how she shows it sometimes. Just a little longer and you'll all be back home together.
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