Continuing with the analogy, the trip to China is kind of like the final day or two and morning of the race. Lots of excitement, lots of doubt, lots of cheering, lots of adrenalin.
The race itself starts February 19-20, when Alice joins us. The adrenalin will carry us through those first few miles (days in China). It will still be exciting with lots of hope and support. Getting home late March 2nd after close to 24 hours of traveling will probably feel like the first "wall". In the weeks ahead there will be many "walls". This really is a marathon and we don't expect to even be approaching the finish line for several years.
I'm reposting something I wrote last fall. While we were "before the airport" last fall, we will soon be "after the airport" and Jen gives an honest description of what's really going on for adoption families and how friends can be understanding of some of the struggles going on out of sight. It's a bit lengthy, so feel free to skip straight to "after the airport" if you're short on time.
Here is a blog from Jen Hatmaker, adoptive mom and writer. She covers all the bases (before & after the airport!) with this post: How to Be the Village
I really like the marathon analogy. Here's what came to my mind after thinking on that...
ReplyDeleteTherefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. Hebrews 12:1
With all the uncertainties you and your DH are facing in the coming days, weeks, & years, I am certain that you will do your best and God will provide what you all need. God bless you all!