Since our journey began this past fall, I learned that the statistics are staggering and include suicide and trafficking. In the USA teens anticipate the day they turn 16. I know I did. I remember the excitement of a a birthday party, gifts, and getting my drivers license. But, this isn't true for many orphans around the world. Soon after their 16th birthday, they will be given the "gift" of freedom, they "age out" of the system, and they must leave the orphanage, along with their very few belongings and a small sum of cash. They will no longer be taken care of by the state orphanage, but this isn't exactly freedom because they literally have no where to go. They are left on the streets, alone, nowhere to turn, and no one to turn to. The majority of these children never make it to their 20s. It's a sobering reality. Their lives are likely to end in suicide or trafficking.
I've recently received an answer to a long prayed prayer on what to do with a certain ministry that was taking quite a bit of my prayers, time, and thoughts. God recently revealed to me how that ministry was something He was fine with me doing, only He had another ministry, a bit more challenging ministry, for me in mind. This ministry that I'm leaving behind was a needed ministry because it helped me realize my true and God given passion - children, specifically helping them realize their great worth and the amazing story that God has prepared for them, how that preparation may be difficult at times, but is always a way to partner with God in His great plan. For all things work together for good...
One path that God is sending us on is adoption, but as my heart aches for so many children, I cannot adopt all of them. But, I can bring awareness to you. Perhaps you could share these websites that advocate for orphans, perhaps you could have a yardsale to help raise funds for someone's adoption, perhaps you could share on your facebook page or your blog about these children, and most importantly, perhaps you could pray for them.
http://projecthopeful.org/waiting-kids/
http://reecesrainbow.org/new-family/thechildren
There are many children, and if we all choose one, what an amazing difference we can make.
Thank you for reading this post. To God be all Glory!