Hellos and goodbyes are rather routine at CSC.  We welcome new kids into our homes, and then serve them in a variety of ways including teaching, playing, sitting, poking at bugs, listening, hugging, healing, caring, and many other things.  Eventually, we have to stop and say farewell to these kids.  This is one of those bittersweet pieces of serving at CSC.  I don't like saying goodbye because these are kids I've grown to know and love.  And yet, I am grateful to know God has answered prayers by providing a family, in his perfect timing and way.  Sometimes it takes a lot longer than we would hope or expect, but God does a lot in the lives of the kids and families during this time.  It's a season of preparation and patience. 

But here we are, reaching a time soon when we will say farewell to a sibling group of 3, after years of waiting.  These are the same kids I took to Manila back in January.  I've also had the opportunity to facilitate their Skype phone calls with their adoptive family, and teach them American Studies.  As a result, I've gotten to know them well.  In the midst of it all, I know that God has ordained them to continue on their way to the next chapter of their lives.  I've been able to witness growth and change in the lives of these 3 young kids and I know they will be a blessing to their adoptive parents and the community where they will live.  While they will certainly be missed around CSC, I know they will be loved and cared for by capable and loving parents.  I have been able to witness the bond the children have with their adoptive family over Skype and I am eager to see them fit together as a family, in the unique ways God has prepared for them.  So while the goodbye may be challenging in the short term, the long term trust and knowledge that God has prepared them for a new life in a different country is what brings comfort and excitement.  I know God will continue to work in this family and use both the parents and the children to bring honor and glory to himself.