Let's face it. Parenting can be really, really hard. Today we face challenges that our parents never faced with easy access to the Internet, iPhones, an increase in predators, pornography and the list goes on and on. There are days when we struggle, cry and pray for wisdom over the lives of our children. There are nights when I collapse on the couch and wish for a "do-over".
But sometimes there are moments like the one we had today at Aidan's fourth grade awards ceremony. Every year our school honors each student in a particular area of academics or character. Mike and I arrived at the awards ceremony this morning wondering if Aidan would be honored in writing, arts, science or reading. Our hearts were filled with awe and joy as we listened (over Hailey's giggles) to Aidan's teacher speaking about our precious son. His award was entitled "Community Service and Beyond". His teacher talked about his heart of compassion and how it is reflected powerfully in his writing. She spoke of how he cares for others, and especially his concern for orphans after adopting his little sister. She also spoke about his community service through our school's Ripple Kids program and our boys' most recent project, the "Stuffed Animal Drive for El Salvador." While we desire for our kids to excel academically, our goal is to raise children with godly character who are compassionate about the world. Today we felt one step closer to that goal as Aidan was recognized for being a young man of character. We will rest well tonight as we celebrate the young man that he is becoming.
Way to go Aidan, we are so proud of you!
The Vision
God spoke this vision regarding our adoption journey to Barbara Lange on March 26, 2010...
"Jenni,
I have made the decision to speak our boldly when God speaks to me. Last night as I was washing the dishes I received this "vision" of you. I hesitate to use the word "vision," but what I saw was a slide of your life. As I watched the show in my mind I began to cry because I was so touched by what I saw. You and I have shared many tears these last couple of years, both sorrow and joy. The attachment is what I saw.
FRAME 1
Jenni sitting at the South Coast Community Church reception desk with the photo album of her courtship and engagement to Mike.
FRAME 2
Jenni performing the gospel message in mime at New Harvest Community Church, showing her heart for the lost and oppressed. Jenni performing the gospel in mime on missions trips everywhere she is able to go. Her Father rejoicing at her obedience and passion.
FRAME 3
The anguished look of a woman desperately wanting to have children. Unsuccessful fertility treatements.
FRAME 4
God watching over His daughter, His heart breaking as tears flow down her cheeks. He whispers in her ear, "My child, I know how broken you feel, but I have a great plan and purpose for your life. This anguish, this heartbreak, this pain will subside. Joy is on its' way. I needed you to suffer in this way because of My plan is for you. You are going to be an advocate for international adoptions. You are going to spread my gospel this way.
FRAME 5
The births of Jordan and Aidan! At last a MOM!
FRAME 6
Having experienced the heartbreak of infertility, Jenni's passion for adoption grows.
FRAME 7
Jenni's passion for missions and adoption begin to fuse.
FRAME 8
The Ramseys start the adoption process for a daughter.
FRAME 9
Jenni goes to Washington DC and connects with adoption leaders. Relationships follow, teamwork begins. Jenni begins a new chapter in her life in the intl. adoption network.
FRAME 10
The slow adoption process is agonizing to the Ramseys.
FRAME 11
Jenni leads a missions team to El Salvador and learns sad news about El Salvador adoptions and specifically their own plans. Heartbroken again, but resolved to press on.
FRAME 12
More networking with intl. adoptions, hope for their daughter and another trip to El Salvador. Jordan goes to El Salvador. The orphans are overwhelmed and ecstatic that Jenni returns. Jenni and Jordan build "forever friendships and family" in El Salvador. Jenni's passion increases.
FRAME 13
Jenni prepares for third trip to El Salvador in one year. Amazing things happen.
FRAME 14 - THE FINAL FRAME...
Mike and Jenni, standing now, older, graying hair, surrounded by their sons and their wives, their daughters and their husbands and their grandchildren. Below them are thousands of children joyously celebrating Jenni's life. Her passion to follow her Father's call and purpose on her life is fulfilled. These thousands of children represent all of the orphans, adoptions and ripple affect of her life's work.
A work that could not be accomplished without the pain, suffering and brokeness she endured trying to become a mom.
Well done, my good and faithful servant."
Aidan,
ReplyDeleteSo proud to be your Aunt Barbara. Awesome job! Way to go! God is smiling.
Love to you,
Aunt Barbara