Today will be GPS class #4 for us. Can you tell we are counting down a little? When you start out on week 1, not knowing at all what to expect, 9 more weeks seems daunting. But after going for 3 weeks so far, I can say that I am actually enjoying it (well, most of it).
It is so obvious at times that this is a state requirement, but the ladies that lead/teach this class are what makes it good. We have now met all 3 of the case workers who will be teaching, and the experienced foster/adoptive mom who stays the same week to week. I definitely see the benefit of these classes and I have learned SO much already! At times it seems like information overload. And at times I think to myself, didn't we already cover this like 3 times already?? But it is necessary and it is helpful.
We started out pretty sure that we were interested in adoption only, but we went with an open mind, ready to listen to what they had to say. And after class #1, that was confirmed. Then you realize how much of a need the state has for foster families, and what these kids go through, and you think, well maybe we could do foster parenting... After class #3 we were back to almost 100% sure that we are interested in adoption only. One of the things they get us thinking about is our families. And how fostering and/or adopting will change your life as well as the child's life.
We have a lot of class interaction too. For 3 weeks now I have listened to the people in our class, and I came to an opinion (shocking, I know). I believe that these people have a calling to be a foster parent. They are like 100% sure about it, and most of them already have kids of their own! I am blown away by them. But as our case workers and experienced mom keep reminding us, each family is unique and has their own needs and knows what fits best in their home with their family- just like each child is unique and has their own needs and will fit best with a particular situation/family. Very reassuring!
I think this would be a great ministry in the church, don't you? I can see it now- Foster Care/Adoption Ministry: being the hands and feet of Jesus as we partner with local and state DHR. In all seriousness, I've read about church families taking this on personally in their families and as a ministry of their church. You might have read a book about it. :) I know this challenge is not for every family, but the need is so so big. My heart hurts for these kids in foster care who have been ripped away from their families. And for the ones whose parents' rights have been terminated and they are just waiting for a forever family. Some have been waiting for years. Some will never have that wish fulfilled.
I guess that's enough for now. Here's to class #4!
