I find myself in a strange place in life. I knew how to prepare for the birth of a baby (well, at least I thought I did). There were midnight cravings, the first kick, the painting of the nursery, the revealing of the baby's sex, baby showers and ultrasounds.
But I have NO idea how to prepare for adoption.
So far, it's consisted of:
- Solitude - I spend EVERY free minute (I can find) reading, researching and reading more.
- Lots of prayer - My prayer list seems endless.
- Saving - I never dreamed we would look at every penny the way we do now - it's REALLY transformed our "I NEED it" moments.
- Writing - I want to record our journey, so that we NEVER forget God's hand in all of it.
The balance of preparing for the future
and not missing the beauty of the present.
In the midst of trying to prepare for adoption, I don't want to miss a moment with our three who are growing up way too fast! But, in my human nature, I do get tangled in the business of life.
I'm so thankful for my husband, who quickly recognizes when we need to slow things down a bit and refocus our family. So, this weekend, we packed up the car, got out of Fort Smith...
and headed to the White River.
Outdoors, in God's beautiful creation.
We fished!
We played with friends!
And I just soaked in every moment.
Every beautiful moment.
It wasn't a trip to Disney World or an extravagant vacation. It was just two days outdoors and the opportunity to be with friends and relatives. God knew that was EXACTLY what we needed!
It were as if, everywhere I turned, God was showing me His greatness...The peaceful mornings - the smell of the crisp, cool air and the melodious songs of nature, waterfalls, powerful rushing rivers, fish of every color, the laughter of children and even swarms of butterflies who, in my mind, were there just to say 'hello' to me. :) It's amazing what He showed me, when I just took the time to look around.
But now we are home. Back to the noises of this busy life.
If you're like me and find yourself constantly tangled in the business of life....Remember this:
"You have made my days a mere handbreadth; the span of my years is as nothing before you. Each man's life is but a breath."
Psalm 39:5
Slow down and take time for what matters most. If we're too busy for the Lord, then we are TOO busy! Learn to say, "no" to some things. Don't over-commit your time/yourself. Turn off the TV, the computer, the cell phone and all the other extra noises in your life (at least once in a while). Stop trying to keep up with the Jones's. Don't jump from one activity or sport to the next. It's ok to have an off-season. Whatever it takes, just slow down. Our life is but a breath.
I struggle with this on a daily basis, and I'm NOT adopting! I love reading your thoughts, your writing is beautiful!
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