Saturday, September 13, 2008

{ A tough month }

One year ago this month we made our journey to Rwanda. I expected to feel overjoyed that we had made it a year. Or at least to feel settled in our new life as a family of five. Instead, I feel an overwhelming sadness. It has gripped me so tightly the last few weeks that there are moments it's hard to breathe.


I try hard to stuff down my emotions, to not be overly dramatic about sad issues. But I keep telling myself, what I saw is worth crying over. The children I turned my back on and walked away from are worth crying over. The birth mother who's story we will never know, is worth crying over. But what mom of 3 has time to have a good, ugly cry? So bottled up it stays.


The 21st is Bizi's Gotcha Day. The first day that he was no longer just a picture on the fridge, no longer an orphan. I still remember with heart wrenching clarity the moment the nun brought him to us. He was not afraid, just curious. Dave hogged him WAY to long before handing him to me (we have video to prove it!). Finally, the son that I had cried over, prayed for and waited on was here in my arms. There was no fairy dust or swelling music, but it was more perfect than Hollywood could ever create.



Often I think of returning to Rwanda. There is a need deep in me to do more. I honestly don't feel like I have done anything to help the people. Let's go and build schools for the orphans that will never be adopted. Let's go spend a day rocking babies that don't ever feel the arms of a mama when they cry. Let's just GO. I guess I should just add one letter, let goD. Let God handle the questions with no earthy answers. Let God take the pain in my heart and use it for good. Let God have all the glory for the miracle of adoption.

Thank you, Lord for never letting my life be boring. For letting me experience unbelievable highs, and gut wrenching lows. Most of all, thank you for my children.

9 comments:

natalie said...

As the weather gets colder I'm reminded of a different sadness.. and I've had a few cries myself for a sick little baby who's mom didnt get to hold him as much as he and she deserved... Thanks for being honest.. and thank you for loving Bizi :)

The McCain House said...

Melissa, I have always loved and admired your heart for others. You are such a great example to those of us who get bogged down in life rather than on others. Thank you for reminding us... Miss you cammy jo

Luke Coles said...

There is so much in this world we could do. That would be an awesome ministry to just rock babies. I'm up for that trip.

memykidsteacher said...

crying with you.
thanks for this authentic post and showing us how to live beyond ourselves and in service to Jesus Christ.

love the biz, and paige and davis.

and you know i want to GO(d) with YOU! I'm a great rocker.

love their parentos.

d.

Joanna said...

Wow, Missy. I love you and miss you dearly. I am so proud of you and Dave. What a beautiful testament to God's love.

Unknown said...

I can't look at that picture without getting teary. That moment is one that I have dreamed of daily these last few months. I just can't wait to see my son for the first time.

You're a blessed lady.

Anonymous said...

Just a note to say I miss you and your wonderful family. I've been thinking about you a lot lately. If you ever need to talk, you know I'm there for you. I proud of everything you've done. Just don't do it a alone :).Love you.

Anonymous said...

She's not lying. I hogged him. :-)

The Keller's said...

I am praying for you right now my friend...praying for God's peace and grace to wrap around you. You are remarkable and I admire you and love you. AND I thank God for you and your friendship. I love being able to "see" inside your heart. Keep sharing!