an open letter to waiting families.

Dear waiting family,
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I know it's hard. Not just because I read about it, or because someone explained it to me. But because I lived it for over a year and a half as we waited for our son. And even as I write, we have spent over 2 years awaiting news on another child. Waiting isn't for the faint of heart.
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So I wanted to write to you, dear waiting family. Because there comes a time along this journey where each of us needs solidarity. 

Unless you have experienced the wait, it's hard to understand. I still jump to grab my phone when it rings, and I refresh my email more often than I should. I get it.

There's this tendency to be overwhelmed in these moments. To allow the waiting to consume us. Friend, please hear my heart: Don't waste your wait! 

Whether the homestudy has just been completed, several PPC hearings have been held, or somewhere in between, we have the honor and privilege of glorifying God through each step of our adoption adventure. Through the anticipation of applying, the excitement of being approved, the humdrum of waiting, and the elation of being matched - through it all, as Christ's ambassadors, we should be seeking every opportunity to make Him known. 

Take heart: You are not alone. Our Father, who paid the price of His Son to adopt us into His family, knows all about waiting. He waited for us while we were still far from Him. He paid the price, and then He waited. His arms aching to hold us, His heart yearning for us to come home. So when you wonder if anyone can comprehend the way your heart is feeling - call out to Him. Because, truly He knows.

And friend, if you need someone to pour it out to - join me here. Reach out on my facebook or through my contact page. This waiting is hard, but it's also a gift. I'd love to help you discover that!

Whether I hear from you or not, I am praying for you right now. That His peace would overwhelm your heart and home. That He would refresh your strength, restore your joy, and renew your purpose. 

Blessings, friend!
​-naomi