Access Ministry - Feb 2016

My daughter and I continue to take turns in Access Ministry as buddies to Z__, an adopted child from Taiwan with cerebral palsy and a number of other related issues (partially blind, has no independent mobility as is only able to use one limb, her left arm and hand).  Her parents have adopted three other children from Uganda (one with HIV) in addition to their two biological children (one with epilepsy).  They advocate for orphans and adoption around the world and helped start our special needs ministries at our church and at churches around the nation. It is such a privilege to work with this young couple and their precious children with big hearts.

When her family adopted her, the doctors looked at her brain scans and told them that there is little should would be ever be able to do for herself, but when I see her, I'm amazed at all the things she can do and in ways few others can. I never thought I could work with children or that children could like me, but when her face lights up upon seeing me walk in the room, all my fears, self-doubt, and excuses instantly disappear. She gave me the encouragement and inspiration I needed to teach children at our kids' school. No one has done that for me like she has. She remembers details of my life that only the closest family members would recall, and she delights to introduce me to her classmates as "friend". When the other children see how she feels about me, they ask to be my friend, too. I don't deserve your friendship, sweet Z, but I sure do treasure it. This drawing we made today was her idea, and I liked it so much I asked HER (b/c she is a smartphone pro) to take a picture of it with my phone.