Can I Make a Difference?

Oh man, there's nothing like starting your day by reading tear-jerking stories. This one hit close to home and I can’t stop thinking about it. It makes my heart break for children in “the system”; children that may never have the chance to flourish. Or to know that someone loves them so fiercely that they would fight for them. Children are diamonds in the rough...they need to be handled delicately and polished with love and care.

Here’s the thing I can’t stop thinking about. If our birth mother had not made the incredible decision to set up an adoption plan; if she had she just left the hospital after giving birth…our little Pickle would be in the care of the State of Alaska. This precious little person that arrived unexpectedly, could have been placed in "the system". Just the thought that we wouldn't have known this little Pickle - this little girl who changed our world - makes me sad. How many little gems are out there, just waiting to be placed in a loving, nurturing home?

  

What if each and every one of us tried to make a difference in a child’s life? What if we took on the role of foster parent? Yes, it would be hard and maybe heartbreaking, but can you imagine the difference you could make in the life of a child before they were “lost” in the system? What if we took on the role of a “big brother/big sister” and provided a positive influence on a kiddo that might desperately need it? What if we all just tried a little harder? I know, I know…we’re all busy and I could probably come up with a ton of reasons why I “just don’t have time” or "what if's". For instance, I could worry about how fostering would affect Pickle...or us? I guess you never know until you try.

With National Adoption Month around the corner, here's a thought for the day. If you knew that you could make a difference, would you at least try?