“Every child deserves a champion – an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists that they become the best they can possibly be.” – Rita F. Pierson

I believe it’s human nature to take little things for granted.  For example, we expect the running water in our showers, the food in our fridge or the heater that allows us to sleep comfortably to always be there for us.  Each day we are blessed with life, love, our jobs, our family, our friends and much more.  We are blessed in so many ways.  

I caught myself rocking this beautiful little boy thinking, “what if my parents gave up on me”?  I realized that I have had the gift of several adults in my life who made a choice every day to stay.  From the moment they conceived me, they made efforts and choices that would never jeopardize my health, safety, emotional state, education and all-around well being.  It was at that moment my heart broke. 

You see, so many children are not chosen.  They are left behind, forgotten, neglected, abused or constantly given up on.  All while they have not one single ounce of control in their own lives.  When they tried to sit up for the first time, no one caught them before their heads hit the ground.  When they cried for food, no one came.  When they spoiled their diapers, they learned to get used to the feeling; they were never cleaned.  They never had the chance to learn safety or love.  They’ve only seen darkness.  

We can’t fix the darkness, but we can be a light and show these children love.  I encourage you to volunteer, write letters, draw pictures, donate or even Foster if that’s something your family is open to.  There’s so much happening right in our neighborhoods and only WE can make a difference.

Ashley Dicker

Foster Mom