Overwhelmed

So I'm a bit overwhelmed by the love and support showed to our family since we shared yesterday that we are adopting a little girl from Haiti. I admit that I was not expecting quite that kind of response. I didn't even know that many people were paying any attention at all to what I ever have to say. Especially people I know in real life, who I rarely talk to.

I posted the link on my private Facebook page and was inundated with the most lovely, wonderful supportive comments and "Likes". Tons of 'em, from people I wouldn't even expect. I would say that it was a more positive response to even announcing a physical pregnancy. People actually made the extra effort to leave a comment on the blog post too! That's even more unusual. I am so grateful for these people. I'm grateful for YOU. I had tears and a smile plastered on my face all day long. 

I especially appreciate all the people who offered up contacts with other friends who have adopted from Haiti, done missions in Haiti, or even just outgrown baby girl clothes (cuz you KNOW I'll need that stuff.) 

Side note: it's going to be a longish journey (1-3 years) and she likely won't be an infant by the time we can bring her home, but we don't know what size she'll be wearing. 

So here's the thing...I did not expect this outpouring because I'm a bit cynical, a bit fearful and the enemy puts lies and doubts in my head all the time. I expected at least someone to ask me why. I mean, I know I explained a bit about that but my explanations won't make sense to some people. Maybe y'all are thinking it and just not saying it, but I expected people to think I'm off my rocker. Heck, sometimes *I* think I'm crazy. Why would I go and mess up the amazingly good thing I have, my nearly picture-perfect family and life? 

I also expected people to balk at the idea of me raising a black child. Adoption is still foreign to so many people and transracial adoption is a really bad idea in the minds of a few. I guess I've been reading a lot about the negative stuff people who have adopted transracially deal with from other people. 

Do I know how to parent a black child? Or a traumatized, institutionalized child? No but I'm learning and will never stop learning. Same as I did and still do when parenting Alex and Nathan. 

One thing I learned yesterday is this...I am surrounded by really amazing people. Both in my every day life and through my extensive online community. People who I grew up with that I don't actually see much anymore and people who I've only met more recently. I am blessed to NOT be surrounded by drama, negativity and chaos. Maybe it has to do with my outlook on life and I hope it's not because I have purposefully avoided hurting people. I hope. 

So thank you from the bottom of my heart. I appreciate your willingness to rejoice with us right now, before we undoubtedly get stuck in the hard parts of the process to get her home.