Those of you who have followed my blog for quite a while know of the very difficult adjustment Eliza had as she moved into her new life with us.
I think the change was enormous for her, and learning the language has been a significant struggle for her as well.
For months I felt we could not get beyond the basic communication of everyday life.
I would get one word answers, or a hand motion or sign in response to my very simplified questions.
I rocked and held her and gave endless hugs, but I still felt there was someone inside that I had yet to know or understand.
But in the past couple of months, an amazing child has emerged with incredible strengths and gifts that, even on a good day, I never even dreamed were inside.
She is doing fantastic in home school. Her ability to focus and persevere through some tough subjects never ceases to amaze me.
She has developed relationships with every one of her ten siblings.
She is very happy with her family and her home, and I have even begun to count on her for help in certain areas.
I think I have shared before that we pray with her every night before she goes to bed, as we do with all of the children.
She absolutely loves this one on one time with us, and even asks for reminders throughout the day that we will pray with her.
Yesterday, we sat down to eat lunch, and Eliza asked if she could pray.
I’m going to share her simple prayer here because I think it speaks volumes about this precious child, who merely eight months ago, knew no English, knew nothing about God, or thankfulness, or family life at all.
Dear Father,
Thank you for Mom and Dad,
And for Mommy make food.
Thank you for my family,
And my home.
And my bed.
Amen.
When she finished, she looked up at me with the sweetest smile, and said, “Mommy, I try. I just don’t have the words.”
Ah, sweet Eliza. You do have the words.
And I’m so proud of you, and so very thankful for the amazing privilege of being your Mother.
Blessings!
What a wonderful prayer and report! I thank God for how far Eliza has come and the progress she will continue to make! PTL!
Vicky Simpson recently posted..One year Home!
More than enough….words! Thanks for sharing. Our Joy is also recently turning a corner. How can we possibly understand the transitions and fear they must have had leaving China to so many unknowns. May Eliza’s potential continue to flourish as you journey on.
Jennifer P recently posted..Today I Will Choose Joy
How truly wonderful to read this! Her prayer says everything, and yet I am also so struck by her self-awareness in saying “Mommy, I try, but I don’t have the words.” I am sure she will have the words, more and more.
Also, what a beautiful testimony to your faithfulness in walking this path. You’ve shared how parts of it have been hard and dark, yet you’ve never wavered even in the hardest moments in knowing that you should walk it. Now some sunshine is breaking through and I’m sure so many are rejoicing with you! G-d’s blessings on all of you, and especially on you for living the truth!
Just beautiful! It makes my heart happy for not only her, but her family as well.
Sherri recently posted..3 word Friday
Ahhh, that put a smile on my face, what a sweet girl and so conscious of her new life and her forever family. At the same time it is also sad, because what she is thankful for, are in fact the basic needs for every child. So happy she’s with you all…
Warm rgds, Claudia
Awesome! She absolutely has the words! How wonderful to be able to hear how she is blossoming with a family’s love! Thanks for sharing!!
What a testimony to what healing God can bring about in the heart of a child as they come to experience love.
And what an example of His love that you guys are to Eliza, the rest of your kids, and to those of us who get to follow your journey and pray for you along the way!
Leese recently posted..Five Minute Friday: View
So sweet. How so few words can speak volumes. There’s not much more than this they need: a mommy and daddy, food, shelter. And love, which you have provided in abundance. Blessings to you and your sweet girl!
Praise the Lord!! I love following your blog. We are home 4 months now with our 14 yr. old daughter…our 8th child and 5th adoption from China:) What an amazing journey!!! Thanks for sharing your heart and family with me.
Lisa Perry recently posted..Snow Day…NO SCHOOL!!!:)
This post brought the biggest smile to my face. It just had to make your day.