Today we connected and bonded to Anya in a way that, up to this point, we have not. The other times we were here Anya was a bit stand-offish. When it was time to say goodbye, she was more than happy to go back to her room with her peers (the only "family" she has ever known). This morning, we took her out to the playground where she usually drags us around with much enthusiasm. This time was different. We pushed her on the swing for a few minutes but she lost interest quickly. At a time when she normally wears us out with the energy typical of a 5 year-old, she wanted to be held. She latched on to Kathy's neck with a death grip. She was completely silent as she hung on. It was as if she was a dead battery being charged for the first time. After a long period of time, I asked her if I could hold her. She nodded "yes" and continued the same silent death grip that she had on Kathy. Somehow she plugged into something that transcended the normal child-like desire to play. She sensed, maybe for the first time in her life, a pure source for something she needs more than air. She needs us. She is bonding to us in the way God designed every parent and child to bond.
The director of the baby home told us that Anya is a leader in her group of children. She is a deep thinker, and a compliant child. She is all of these things against all odds. Anya has never known family. She has never been held more than a few minutes by care-givers who cannot possibly satisfy the emotional needs of so many children. Technically, she does not know (nor could she put into words) what she is missing. But the need is still very much there. It's just under the surface waiting for the connection we are so eager and able to give.
We are in the middle of the greatest struggle of her life. The outcome will totally determine her future. We are so thankful that we have the network of committed prayer warriors standing in the gap for us! We can feel the momentum and influence of your partnership with us. We need you all to pull out the "big guns" with us right now as we meet with the people in positions of authority which have the power to govern her future. Please join with us as we petition God to influence them through whatever vehicle he chooses. Pharaoh and Nebuchadnezzar were influenced by dreams. Balaam was influenced by a donkey. God knows EXACTLY what will get their attention.
We all know that the last 5% of any worthwhile endeavor is the hardest. We are definitely at that point and we need you now, more than ever, to help hold our arms up. Thank you all so much! We love you all!
No comments:
Post a Comment