Forever

Ever really think about what that term means?

I think of forever and I think of 'til death do us part, and how my love for my children will never end. But, other than that, I really don't think about it.

Today, our family had the honor of attending an open house for a precious little boy and parents, who were celebrating his long awaited adoption. L. is a little boy, almost 5 years old, who was a ward of the state and child of the foster system. He was born, premature, addicted to multiple drugs, and his life has been no picnic. His first foster family was, to say the least, not a good match. His second foster family welcomed him with open arms and with tons of love. They have struggled to adopt him since he came into their home. His birth mother, a woman ordered to have no contact with him, refused to relinquish rights. His biological father decided he wanted him, but little L. ended up suspiciously hurt under his care.

The adoption process was started and stopped so many times, because of the system. In the end, the father volunteered to relinquish custody/rights, the mother was ordered to give up her rights by the court, and L.'s foster parents were allowed to adopt him.

I was chatting with his grandmother today, and she told me something touching.

After the court proceedings were over and the adoption finalized, the family asked for a picture with the judge. L. gave the judge a high five and then, the following conversation took place:

L- This is my Daddy. This is my Mommy. This is my Sissy. Forever?

Judge- Forever.

L- I am L. [insert adoptive last name]?

Judge- Yes.

L-Forever?

Judge-Forever

L- No more [insert birth name]?

Judge- You are [insert full adoptive name] forever and ever.

L.- K. Good. I like forever.

I'm so happy that L. and his family have found a happily ever after, and that their never ending love for him has given him a forever.