I Have (Had) a Dream

In 1962 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his famous speech where he stated, “I have a dream that my four children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.” That dream is alive and fully recognized in the Shinkle household, though far from reality throughout this world. Dr. King fought for his four children and I now have the opportunity, no privilege, to make four of my seven among those who will certainly face the challenges of racism throughout their lives.

In November 2009 I began this journey to change the destiny of my family. The adoption of Joseph and Jacob has no doubt transformed future generations and touched those among us now. I had the luxury of taking my time through the first adoption through many circumstances seemingly within and beyond my control. This allowed for fundraiser after fundraiser and the opportunity to pay one expense before the next came due. This time however, time itself may not be on my side.

Coincidence?

• March 18, 2012 I had a dream
• There were twin girls born in this dream
• I had a split second decision to make
• April 2010 I first saw Jacob. April 2012 I was scrolling through pictures of waiting children and my heart literally leapt as I saw twin girls destined to be my daughters
• These girls remind me of Joseph and Jacob in many of their mannerisms
• There is a perceived urgency in moving forward to get them home
• One of these girls will retain her first name in America. The other (like Jacob) will likely get a new first name

I am not one to believe in coincidence but can plainly see the plan laid before me by a God who is able to overcome every challenge now before me. We are commanded in scripture to care for the widows and orphans, with each individual equipped to do that in his or her unique way. For some this means to allow the 147 million orphans to be another’s problem, some are called to adopt, and others to financially and prayerfully support those who do adopt. Jesus himself ordained adoption by allowing us to be called his sons and daughters.

I have a radical challenge to place before those who would believe with me and I only need 6000 people to say yes. Um, yes, I did say 6,000! If 6000 people will donate $5.00, less than the cost of a one-time lunch, this adoption will be almost fully funded and I can bring two more children out of poverty and disease. I can tuck them in bed at night, celebrate holidays and birthdays with them, and provide needed medical care. I can be the one lucky enough to teach them about their Heavenly Father while providing the opportunity to grow to be successful adults.

Now, here is the crazy part. I can be paper ready in about 3 months, so this challenge comes with a deadline. Just 12 weeks, $30,000, and 2 lives saved. Many will ask, “What’s in it for me?” and I respond, the opportunity to witness a living God in action as he makes the impossible possible. Will you please join me now in supporting the international adoption of these two precious, precious girls and help them reach their forever family.

Thank you and God Bless,

Debbie, Kathy, Amy, David, Joseph, Jacob, R, and B