Open your heart and Get ready to love...Any Child Anywhere

So today a friend of mine mentions how concerned she is going to need a medical procedure that could limit her ability to have children. I feel for her, I do really...but this whole idea of worrying about not bearing a child of your own is lot on me. I had two kids very early on. I fought tooth and nail for them and lost more times than I care to remember. I had a great opportunity to impact the lives of many other wonderful young women and teens. I watch as these girls are nearly all grown up or are grown and starting a life of their own. If I had won custody of my kids maybe I would not have been able to be there for these others. Maybe I wouldn't have been the friend that the girls needed when they needed a pal at church. Maybe I wouldn't have been the shoulder for the girls to cry on. Maybe I wouldn't have been the navigation system for my nieces when they get lost about town or be able to know the fun and safe places for them to hang out.  Maybe I wouldn't have been there for friends of my boys that needed a mom to just listen to them and hear what they had to say without judgement or ridicule or attitude.

Heavenly father blessed me with empathy. I have been through much. I have endured much. I have lived through much. I have done this since I was young. I know this was so I could be there for others. I knew in my heart that when my children were not with me, it was ok because I had OTHER children who I loved dearly and gave them my love and care and kindness but also who loved me.

Looking back, even before it all I was there for a child who needed me more than anything and she reminded me of it very recently. I may have been a mere teen myself though at 18 I sure didn't think so, but I was there for her. I think that is when I realized I could make a difference in the lives of others. I could make a difference to other children who needed a friend, who needed someone other than their moms or dads once in awhile.

So, maybe you can or can't have a child of your own. There are so many children in this world who need adopted, fostered, cared for, nurtured, mentored, loved and thought of. I am thinking of a friend KV I know who dearly loves her little one and adoption made this possible. No matter where you are open your heart and I know you will find them.

Blessings in a Basket is a great resource to connect others for this cause
Boys and Girls Club of America in your area
Local churches, schools, colleges even have mentoring programs
Just look around, open your heart and get ready to love...