A “gift” is the transfer of something, without the need for compensation that is involved in trade.  A gift is a voluntary act which does not require anything in return.

        Okay. I always thought of a gift as an all-around pleasant experience. Christmas. Birthdays. Anniversaries. Valentine’s Day. What I’ve learned in the last four years about gifts has not been pleasant, downright difficult; however the outcome has been worthwhile.  

        I’m going to let the cat out of the bag. I didn’t really expect adoption to be soooo hard. Those who know me well already know that. Of course, we did adopt a sibling group of six, who ended up with numerous initials – RAD, PTSD, OCD etc.  What was I thinking!! I guess that’s the point - I wasn’t. I am extremely confident that this is God’s will, that He brought these children into my life, that he wants to use me to help, guide and teach them. I know He blessed me with an incredibly strong, caring husband and three amazing bio sons who have grown and helped throughout the difficulties. Wow, God’s gifts are so honoring and humbling at the same time.

        Raising my three biological boys has been easy and fun compared to the job of the adopteds. Yet I have learned more about sacrifice and love than I ever understood before. Plus I’m stronger. Ben’s motorcycle accident, had it happened five years ago, would have sent me into a deep depression. Not so now. I have continued on with living, raising the kiddos, schooling etc.  My trust in the Lord is growing, slowly, but going forward. That’s exciting! More gifts to be grateful for.

        I think the hardest part in regards to the adoption, was finding out that I had an incomplete attachment to my own mother.  I was getting prepared for the difficulties of adoption; I was not prepared for what it would bring up in me. I always wondered why I felt so empty and now I know. Another gift of adoption.

        One of the best gifts is when I see the whole family together, laughing, playing, eating and just enjoying each other. Truthfully, it’s rare. Usually one of the children is out of sorts, working through some trigger. So, I really appreciate it when it’s peaceful and fun.  

        So, a gift is not always a pleasant experience, but it is given voluntarily and without strings attached.

Thank you dear Lord, for your gifts, especially salvation.

Blessings.