One month ago we met Clementine. And, to be completely honest, those first moments – after months of waiting, mounds of paperwork and countless prayers – were far from storybook.
Before we even realized what was happening, she was rushed passed us in the police station, being carried flat on her back by what seemed like an army of somber-faced Chinese women, and bundled in layer after layer topped off with a hooded yellow snowsuit.
All we could hear was the rattling of her labored breathing.
And all we could see was the shell of a very frightened, very sick little girl.
So very grateful that Chris and I had, to each other and to the Lord, committed to this child no matter what long before then. Because this mama was scared.
As I was trying to gain my composure, the orphanage official clamored out of the tiny photo room and into the waiting area, Clementine facing out, and walked up to me. I thought she was giving me an opportunity to take a photo but instead, without a word, she deposited our new daughter in my arms.
It felt far from storybook.
But God’s plans are never storybook. He designs His stories with each of His children specifically in mind. And He uses every bit of the brokenness in this world, and the brokenness in our own hearts, to teach us. Change us.
To separate the wheat from the chaff.
I am a different person than the one that walked into that police station. I needed sifting. Still do, but some chaff has been blown away. All by His grace.
And, all by His grace, I have fallen head over heels with this tiny little slip of a child. She is magnificent.
I couldn’t see past the shell in those first difficult moments. But He could.
And Clementine is a different person than the one I met in that police station.
She needed to be loved. Protected. Cherished.
And He knew that, by His grace, we would.
My prayer for her is that she one day come to know and love the true Hero in my life and hers.
The One that, even more than we ever could, treasures her. Fights for her. And calls her by name.
After all, He is the only real storybook ending.
Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are Mine.
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you;
when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. – Isaiah 43:1-2
She’s beautiful!!!
love it all…but perhaps most struck by the pic of chris’ hand near her face…so many emotions
This is beautiful
Amen.
Hello! I took a blog hiatus and you’ve adopted more kids! I’m from the Shepherd blogging days… I have two from China, Bennett and Cat. So nice to see everyone doing so well. Much love in this Holiday season. (formerly ThatGirl/thatgirlblogs).
Stefanie, the fact that you blog, and share your life, its a gift. This blog post is a gift to others, probably without you even realizing that you were giving it. It is so beautiful and so honest and so true. your little baby looks so small! Oh my she is precious, so adorable. Thank you for sharing your heart and your family with us. Much love to you all.
Your journey continues to encourage and strengthen me as we wait, with so many unknowns, to go to China for our little boy. Thank you for sharing. Many hugs and prayers for precious Clementine. She is so beautiful.
Your gift with the pen and camera is amazing. What a joy to watch from afar the transformation of another China treasure! Merry Christmas to you and your family!
What a transformation in a month! You are so talented…
Thank you for posting this and putting into words what it is like for those of us who did not have storybook gotcha days. Your writing was eloquent and beautiful.
Melt my heart!! Could she get any more precious!!!
Oh my word! How precious! I have a little man with Downs. He’s 10 now and as yummy as ever:) my friend Paige that had adopted twice from China told me about your blog and newest addition! If you ever need a fellow Down Syndrome mom to talk to, feel free to shout out! My email is mollyvoth@gmail.com. Blessings to you and your sweet family!