Special Needs and Adoption

We just returned from the doctor and Anna Mei is napping.  She fell asleep on my chest for the first time and she is already letting me rock her and feed her a bottle.  I had to write down her special needs given to her by China on the medical report for the clinic.  The doctor read them, examined her, and with a perplexed look asked if she was very smart because he could see her writing and could tell she had no significant delays.  He examined her body-probably looking for the cerebral palsy- and asked in broken English..you find trouble with her?  I said no.  This sweet baby has none of the special needs listed in her file..none.  She is signing open and more already.  She is saying momma.  She kisses and feeds her bear.  She shakes her head no, scribbles with a pen, points to things, invents games, engages adults around her, and is absolutely perfect.  After a week with her, I don't think she is delayed enough to qualify for any therapy at all. 

This is such a big reminder that while we try to control our lives by filling out medical checklists and taking files to the doctor..God is in control.  He alone knows the outcome of each step we take.  He asks us at times to follow Him into the darkness and we are only to follow obediently.  This baby girl's file was a little scary.  I can't lie about that.  When we started this adoption, I was sure that I would not accept another special focus referral again.  I just wanted an easier special need and something that I would be sure I could handle on top of our sweet Jillian's needs.  Well, we were given Jia Ren's referral whose diagnosis was a little scary..developmentally delayed, brain abnormalities, cerebral palsy and she was a special focus case too.  Despite all this, we were sure that she was meant to be ours the minute we opened her file and saw that her Chinese name was the same as Jillian's-Ren.  As sure as I was, I have continued to battle fear as I was waiting for our TA.  I was questioning whether I could care for two special treasures.  And while I am quite certain that the days ahead will not be easy and I am even more certain that all adoptions are special needs to some degree, this little treasure is just about as healthy and on target developmentally as an orphan can be.  I don't know why God has given her to us, just as I will never know why He has chosen to bless us with our other two beautiful girls, but I am rejoicing that He trusts me with this baby.  He is faithful and good.  I simply can't wait to have my girls together and to see this little one in her daddy's arms.  I know that her life will bring Him much glory!

PS Being here in Guangzhou is like a piece of heaven.  There are Chinese babies everywhere with adoring new mothers and fathers looking on.  I know the Father above must smile down on this place watching so many of His people caring for the least of the least.  My heart I love the Chinese face.  These children are in my heart and I tear up watching so many experiencing family for the first time.  If God is asking you to take a step toward bringing home a precious treasure don't let fear rob you of the greatest blessing of your life.  There are many waiting.  Could one be waiting for you?