I reached out to take his toddler hand in mine and he reached back grasping tightly. His smile said, “I trust you.” And my smile said, “It’s about time, baby.”

Attachment is a hard thing for foster children. The only attachment they’ve ever felt has been ripped from them overnight. It usually happens suddenly and they are placed in a new place with new people. It’s hard for them to understand how to settle in and trust when there’s really no security in the amount of time they will stay. 

Suddenly a stranger is eye to eye with them and they are expected to move along with life. It’s hard. It doesn’t always work easily and smoothly. Most of the time it’s hard for all involved. A gain for one is a loss for another. The emotions are high and rightly so. 

It can feel like we aren’t making quite the difference we are hoping to. But when the little hand reaches back and a smile comes naturally, we finally see a glimpse of the difference. 

If you are a difference maker it can feel overwhelming to know what to focus on.

So many people need encouragement.

Everyone really.

For you, it might not be a foster child, it might be a friend at work, or the neighbor you keep feeling the nudge to reach out to. It could be an acquaintance you’ve only met a couple times or a person who lives in your house right now.

There are people all around us who need someone to make a difference in their lives.

Here’s my challenge to you today: Make a difference for one. Show love. Smile. Give the gift of time. Take a leap of faith. Act on your good intentions and love someone who has nothing to give back to you. Reach out with a sincere hand of love and you might find them reaching back with a smile.

Give it time. But know this – your love is needed. Share it.

By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another. John 13:35 (ESV)

If you are curious about foster care, I would love to tell you more.

But most of all I would say this – DO IT! I promise there is a child who will be placed with strangers  – maybe those strangers could be your family offering a sincere smile of love back. 

Love & Blessings,