We get so many of the same questions lately that we're starting to really refine our answers. Thought I'd share a few.
Q: How long have you known you wanted to Foster children.
A: I read an article when I was 14 about seriously abused children and wanted to do something. But I knew it would happen when I met my husband. He taught karate to children through college and was so patient, constant and firm I knew his skills had to be shared.
Q: Do you worry about getting attached and then losing a foster child?
A: No- I absolutely know we will get attached and we know their future is not our decision. I'm not sure what it will do to us, but it can't be any worse pain than what these children go through. Taking a sweet breath on this planet means sorrow ahead, but we at least have a warning this time.
Q: Is it a hard adjustment for your schedule and family?
A: I was braced for it but in truth it has been smooth for us. We still have smudges from our other children on the wall so what is one more? It suits us fine to just have one more in the mix since we are already in this stage of life. Diapers and night feedings will get old someday but we're still young (no snickering) so why not a little longer?
Q: What is the story with the parents?
A: We tell people they are addicted to drugs and are really trying to come clean. But truthfully, we learned that each child and each situation has it's right to privacy. Every human being has their ups and downs and struggles. Each foster child has a story that is really private and were they old enough to say so, probably wouldn't want people to know all they've been through. As much as I love a good story, I just need to know my job. We pray for these parents and hope for reunification.
A Q & A with a foster sister.
I over heard my daughter explain on a play date that "I was born from my mommy's tummy, but my foster sister wasn't". Somehow, my children have all just taken this whole thing in stride. Even my oldest is adjusted to her now. What ever upsets they may have experienced will be offset by lessons I could never have taught them otherwise.
