Guatemala...

I discovered these articles today in a Yahoo group I'm in, for parents of Guatemalan adoptees. If you have a chance to read them, let them direct your prayers for Guatemala. The difficulty of being a single mother in this climate is very "close" (I can't think of the right word) to me when I think of Yosi's birthmother, who is there, trying to raise 2 of her children. It makes my heart ache because I know there's not alot I can do for her directly... maybe someday. In the meantime, I am immensely grateful that God saw fit to place Yosi in my arms, and I'm remotivated to do my best, for her first mother's sake. Even when I feel my worst, I know I have nothing to complain of.

Private Assassins Target Gangs In Guatemala

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=98593139&sc=emaf

Guatemalan Recounts Time As Gang Member

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=98596425&sc=emaf

You know, alot of people have said/asked me: "How could a mother give up her baby?" Well, these articles may give you an idea of why a mother might feel so compelled to let her child leave her arms. I have no doubt that many Guatemalan mothers would much rather hold their children tight to their breast and protect them themselves. And really, isn't that ideal? As much as I love Yosi, in perfect world, she would've stayed with her first mommy. No mother ever makes such a choice lightly, without excruciating grief, but also never without extraordinary hope and courage. Please, do not forget these mothers in your prayers. Certainly for every mother that rejoices and delights in the eyes of her child, there is a mother mourning for a child lost. Maybe the same child.