Thursday afternoon we were allowed to visit Mycah's orphanage. We took an approximately 2 hour van ride to Qingyuan City SWI and arrived just at the end of their school day. I had been a little nervous about this trip. Mycah had been doing pretty well, and I didn't want this to confuse him or set him back. We first entered the administrative building and were greeted by a lady in charge of adoptions. After a quick trip to the squatty potty, we were ready to start our walk. At this point Mycah had a funny look on his face and I was pretty sure we were about to see his first breakdown. After a few encouraging words...none of which he understood I am sure...I started walking and he followed. By the time we got to the school building, we could hear the sound of children's voices. He started to smile. When we reached his classroom, the kids were SO excited to see him! Although a little shy at first, he became quite chatty and animated when he was able to pass out the treats we had brought to his friends. Six little girls...and Mycah. The absolute joy on their faces and the high pitched Chinese chatter absolutely melted my heart. Watching the girls bring him their treats so he could help open them was adorable. After a few pictures we headed outside and watched them dash across the courtyard, laughing and playing the whole way. Those were the biggest smiles I had seen out of him up to that point, and it made me happy and sad to see how happy he was to be back at his orphanage. The kid has no idea what waits for him in a family. We walked the girls back to the dorm building and said goodbye. We were not allowed to go in and see where they slept and ate. I can only imagine why, and I do not like what I imagine.
Looking back on our visit four days ago, I can see that our visit was a positive turn for him. That night when we returned to our hotel room, he chattered more that all the previous days combined. And every day we see a little less shell shock and a little more Mycah! What an incredible process to witness.
Which brings me back to 6 little 4 year old girls. Six girls that I saw, smiled at, talked to and touched. Six little girls who have no recollection of a father or mother's love. Six little girls who have no family coming for them...yes, we asked! Six little girls who have grown up in a building with holes in the walls and no heat or air conditioning. Six little girls who wear sandals with their toes hanging over the ends.
Six little girls that
I.
Left.
Behind.
Although I could not bring these precious little ones with me, they are forever etched in my memory. And I will do all I can to see these orphan girls become beloved daughters. Expect to see them on my sidebar very soon...as a reminder for me and everyone else who reads that though I rejoice over our son, it isn't just about him. One less is not enough...there are MANY more.
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