Sleeping Children

I love to watch my children sleeping – it’s one of those “all is right with the world” times for me – I use the time to think about my children’s future…often to pray about those inevitable years when their mom and I will no longer be in control, but also to cherish the current moment. Last night, Sahar fell asleep early, and I had some of that time with her – yet, in this situation, I have had no control or influence on her life up to this point, and in five weeks, I relinquish that control…so, just like with my own children, I prayed about her future – a future in a land I have never even set foot upon. I came away, simply thinking that what our family must do is make all of the difference we can during the remaining time Sahar is here.

Sahar is in for a true “experience” next week…it’s the week of Caroline’s dance recital. Where do I even begin, in attempting to describe what that week involves each year? The stress is palpable…extra-long rehearsals, lost tights, shoes in need of last-minute painting, a little sleep deprivation…you get the picture. Heck, I am afraid of the dance studio all year long – I definitely would never set foot near the studio during the week of the recital. The recital itself is a true spectacle – flowers everywhere, coveted backstage passes, and when the auditorium doors open – there is running, yelling, and gnashing of teeth in the effort to get just the right seats. We’ll see how Sahar does with the experience…thus far, she’s just said, “No dancing in Afghanistan…”

Sahar and food – we’re doing well. She eats pretty much whatever we eat, and has developed a special affinity for pizza and Mickey-D’s (…not that we eat those things often or anything). Also on the subject of food, thanks to those awesome families who have provided us with meals this week – this experience takes a lot out of you, and not having to worry about the next meal is a huge, huge help.

Yesterday afternoon, all of us gathered with a professional photographer to take some family pictures with Sahar. Each of the host families will eventually do this – it gives each of the children a special picture to take back to Afghanistan. And of course, these are images I believe our family will always treasure, as well.

It’s been a week now since Sahar arrived – on the one hand, the time has passed quickly, and on the other, it seems she’s been here much longer (in a good way). She and Caroline are doing so well together now – a definite bond has formed. Tonight, Caroline mentioned to me that Sahar’s departure date in mid-July would be a sad day for her. I assured Caroline that, while it would be a sad day for us all, we should also realize that Sahar will be returning to what is familiar to her – to what she has known her entire life. And, I am so glad Sahar has a family in Afghanistan to whom she will return, regardless of whether she lives with them on a daily basis – there is a family who must be missing her now, and will welcome her back.

Next week, Sahar’s teeth will be further assessed – we are now pretty certain that her serious tooth decay is the source of her chronic headaches.

Thanks to those who have let me know you’re following the blog. The positive words of support have been greatly appreciated. If you want to let me know you’re following it or if you have a question you would like me to answer in a future post, feel free to e-mail me at bcoker1@ju.edu.

Bryan