Perspective

I met with a colleague today. She has adopted three children from Guatemala. Her third child . . . she waited 22 months to bring him home. Her daughter and other son came home within 4 and 9 months, respectively. 22 months of waiting. The baby is now 4 years old, home for two years. 22 months.

What was interesting was that she didn't have problems with PGN. Her delays happened at other stages. There are families who are behind us in the process, who are waiting for the US to give them pre-approval to adopt. There are people ahead of us who got the signature we are waiting for, but they have been delayed getting their appointment with the US embassy in Guatemala.

22 months is sobering. It is not the norm. It was wonderful to really see someone who said, that you don't forget, but it fades.

22 months. And yet, worth it.