I Have a Hope and a Future!

If there's one thing that this crazy journey of finding my birth mom has taught me is that wherever you are in life, or whatever circumstance you find yourself in, your story is not over yet. I've been writing from the perspective of an adopted child reunited with her biological mom, but really, my story could be any of yours. Your story might centre around loss of a child or a loved one, or an addiction that is wreaking havoc, it could be loneliness, unmet needs or dreams, it could be years of silent suffering due to depression or abuse. Whatever your situation, remember that God's not done with you yet. He has promised you a hope and a future when you trust in Him...His plans for you are good! Just come to Him, surrender your life, and let him wrap His loving arms around you.

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD,
"plans to prosper you and not to harm you,
plans to give you hope
and a future."
Jeremiah 29:11

National Siblings Day

Today is April 10th,  which, thanks to numerous Facebook posts, we discover the fact that it marks National Siblings Day. Although it is actually an American holiday which honours the relationship of siblings, many Canadians are joining in with the posts and pictures, giving a shout out to their siblings.

Last year, I posted an old picture of my brother and sisters, thanks to April 10th falling on a Throwback Thursday. Here it is, enjoy the throwback to 70's clothing!

These guys have been an awesome bunch to grow up with, and even into our adulthood we still stay connected. We have been through both good times and some pretty challenging times, but I am thankful that R, H, and E are always there for me to turn to, they are a constant in my life. Although we all came from different biological parents, there was never a doubt in my mind that they were my true brother and sisters. Sibling relationships can be just as strong and lasting in an adoptive family as in a blood-related family.

This year however, I get to post yet another sibling picture. Last year at this time, although I knew I had a biological brother out there somewhere, I had not yet searched him out or met him. Technically, P has been my sibling for longer than any of the others, even though I've only known him for less than a year! How weird is that? Although we don't share a common past of childhood memories, we do share a common bond in having the same beautiful mother. Our actual relationship started later in life, but that does not make us any less of being siblings.

Regardless of how any of these brothers and sisters have come into my life, they are a blessing to me and I am grateful for each one of them, both adoptive and biological. Happy National Siblings Day!

"You don't choose your family. They are God's gift to you, as you are to them." - Desmond Tutu