"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God." ~ Matthew 5:8

Thursday, April 25, 2013

I wish I could tell you "Happy Birthday"

My dear little brother,

Today is your birthday! I can't believe how quickly you're growing up. I'm sure you're taller than the last time I saw you! Soon you'll shoot past me (it's not hard to be taller than your big sister!).



How I wish I could give you a big squeeze and tell you "Happy Birthday!" myself. I was wishing today that I could make your favorite dinner and maybe even bake your birthday cake with you. I wish I could see your face light up as your family gathered around, lit candles, and sang "happy birthday to you." I would love to see you tear into wrapping paper and enjoy presents from your siblings and parents.

Coloring with your dad-you are a true artist.

I have all these wishes, but this year none of them will be coming true. Maybe your brothers and some of your friends remembered it was your birthday? Maybe a teacher? I don't know. I don't even know what your favorite kind of cake is or what you want most of all for a present. For two precious days I got to see your face light up as people came to visit you, to love on you, to give gifts to you. For two days, you knew you mattered. For two days the word "family" seemed like a possibility. I will never, ever forget when we said goodbye. You hugged me tight, then looked up at me with tears and your eyes and asked, "When are you coming back?" Oh dear boy, I wish I could.

A self-portrait. You're a goof!

There are people who would say "Never" is the answer to your question. But I'm praying you don't give up hope. I'm praying that somehow you will know that your family didn't give up on you; that we love you and miss you. I'm praying that someday "never" will become "now" and I can look you in the eyes and call you brother.

Love always,

Your big sister.

6 comments:

  1. me to. praying for you dear one, and all your siblings. We are all praying.

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  2. This is rather sad, and it seems like I'm missing something. Maybe if I dig deeper in your blog....Praying it all works out anyway.

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  3. oh, darling friend, I feel your ache :( wish I could reach out and hug you right now, but I know that our God is holding you, and holding your precious siblings, and mine, in His almighty hands! We serve the redeemer of the fatherless, and there is always hope in Him.

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  4. Brought me to tears...beautiful post. Our God can change anyones heart and I pray that you all can bring your siblings home!

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  5. My dear Lissie, I'm praying so much. This brought tears as our siblings in Russia share the same birthday. May God comfort our siblings in the orphanage and us as we wait for them here.

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