I commented on a blog post over at Lori's blog, and she liked it so much she reposted it as an actual post. I thought you all might like to read it. It is about what Kazakhstan's orphanages are really like. Lori's recently returned from a non-adoption trip there and saw much that caused her concern. I don't blame her.
Most parents are given a bit of a fiary tale story about Kazakhstan as they select a country to adopt from. Agencies often are less than truthful, perhaps not intentionally. We never really fell for that, nor asked those kinds of questions. I think our first experience with Matthew's adoption was enough to show us the truth, and prior to that we made the assumption that...well...it's an orphanage, it ain't going to be pretty.
If you are so inclined, go check out my guest post at:
http://fiveofmyown.blogspot.com/2011/10/mentally-tricking-ourselves.html?spref=fb
Most parents are given a bit of a fiary tale story about Kazakhstan as they select a country to adopt from. Agencies often are less than truthful, perhaps not intentionally. We never really fell for that, nor asked those kinds of questions. I think our first experience with Matthew's adoption was enough to show us the truth, and prior to that we made the assumption that...well...it's an orphanage, it ain't going to be pretty.
If you are so inclined, go check out my guest post at:
http://fiveofmyown.blogspot.com/2011/10/mentally-tricking-ourselves.html?spref=fb
1 comment:
What reply can one make to your description of the horrors of Kaz and Kyrg orphanages, to the treatment of children there and around the world? Even here where we say we cherish our children our policies and actions say differently. Whether in political choices, educational cuts, family-unfriendly policies, unsafe environments, uncaring families. We too stand with other countries in expecting young adults to be responsible, compassionate, loving,educated citizens While giving them inadequate support from familial, social, political, and, yes, even, at times, religious nurturing and support.
What can our response be? Involvement with love! Whether that is advocating for family and child positive legislation and priority allocation of government funds to being an aide at schools to being a Big Sister, Big Brother to being a resource for an individual family. There is something each of us can do. Even the housebound can write in support and pray with fervor.
As to why Cindy and Dominick have children that are surviving even thriving, that are loving and learning after such a horrifying background, it is because of their intentionality, their unsatiable desire to learn and be the kind of parents every child should have. It is because they listen respectfully, respond thoughtfully, and love unstintingly.
How can each of us help? By doing the same--and not just with children, with each other. Look into another's eyes, listen without drifting into your response, respond with thought and love. And support the institutions and organizations that promote healthy, loving children.
Just a thought,
Lael
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