Foster Parenting: Celebrate the Vision

by Emil Baldwin, Jr., LSW
Reprinted by permission

This week I saw a TV commercial for Sears Craftsman^TM tools that highlighted the work of a cabinet maker who appreciated the accuracy of their tools. As it turns out, this hobbyist had lost his sight several years before beginning the sideline. Although the story was inspirational, I really liked the statement he made at the end of the ad which went something like this: "Although my friends thought I was crazy... I like to say I lost my sight but not my vision"

Although I thought that this was really a neat quotation, it also reminded me that there are a lot of you out there who have heard the very same words from your family and friends. Particularly those of you who are foster parents. Over the years, many applicants have told me that some of the people they know have made jokes, criticized, and in some cases, disowned them because they wanted to bring foster children into their home. Despite those reactions, lack of support from official channels, late checks, insufficient financial reimbursement, and dealing with difficult behavior of some of the children, many have persevered. They continue onbecause they enjoy what they do, they love children, and they want to make a difference in their lives.

The service that these folks provide to their community is invaluable. Without them each town or county would have to leave abused children intheir homes or return to the days of the County Homes or orphanages. So, look around your community and seek ways to support the people who watchover those who can't defend themselves. Help them when you can... sign up if you are interested... and pass the word around your community that more are needed.

May is National Foster Family month! Celebrate those who haven't lost their vision!

"He is a visionary and it takes a visionary to stick with something that fails for so many years." -Stephen Spielberg

Source: Emilville USA Newsletter.

© 2002, Emil Baldwin, Jr., LSW

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