Leigh's Story, Continued

...how hard it is to have your own family, how amazing it is to be part of another's growing, changing life.  Years go by. You never meet the one who will help you grow your family. It’s just the two of you for so long, and you wonder if it will be enough family for your daughter. 

A sister. Your daughter needs a sibling.  A forever friend who will be there after you’ve left this earth. You almost dismiss the idea – your baby is 8 years old.  But an unexpected door opens and you dare to explore the possibilities, once more. Fifteen months of documents, forms, appointments, checks, more checks, a million prayers, and lots of introspection. “Am I doing the right thing?”  And they call you to get on the plane to get her.  Like a mother in labor, you hear those same words, “It is time.” Two weeks, two aunties who save you in so many ways, two children, both struggling to survive all of the changes, many hours on planes, hardly any words to communicate, and you bring her home.  She's only a year younger than big sister, but looks like she's three years younger.  She has so many things that she must overcome, but her spirit and will to thrive are intact.  

Six months later, the hardest time of your life, so far, is resolving, and there are more good moments than bad.  There are words now, and moments of fun and laughter.  You have made it through. 

This, THIS, is your family.

If you are inspired by this story and would like more information about international adoption, please visit CHILDREN'S HOPE INTERNATIONAL to learn more.