The Encouragement That I Needed

My aunt asked a good question and perhaps you've wondered too. What does Jason think about all of this stuff about me going to Korea? So this is a post dedicated to him and how he is involved in this adventure.

From the very beginning, Jason initiated this whole process. Ten years ago when we got married, moved and bought our first house in Proctor, he prodded me to get some information about my birth family. At that time, I had no idea why he was so interested. I think it was to make sure I knew my health history. My attitude at that time was kind of like "eh, if I find information great, if not, that's OK too." And believe it or not, he's the one who contacted my adoption agency and got things going. He's the one who got excited when a packet of intake papers arrived at our house explaining what I was like as a child etc. It had funny descriptions like what I liked to eat, what I did when I got mad (furrowed my brows but quickly got over it) and how I slept, played and interacted with people. It was fairly accurate. It must have been hard for my mom give those descriptions to other people about us and then know she wasn't going to see us again. So that was pretty much it. I got a packet of information that they got at my intake.

Then maybe two years ago, my sister Kari got information about her birth family. Her process was free and really quick! Before she knew it, she got information about her parents and siblings and she was exchanging pictures and e-mails with a brother who spoke English. That prompted a little desire for me to perhaps pursue finding my birth mom a little further. Again, Jason took it a step further encouraging me to get going in that process. We paid our fee and submitted a letter and photo of our family. Then, it sat in a file in Korea waiting for my mom or family member to be found.

I wish I was more precise in my timing, but it was quite awhile before we actually heard something. My dad's side of the family was the first to contact me and sent an emotion filled letter as well as pictures. I guess I could look back on this blog and find approximate dates. It was last May when I heard from my mom. She sent her first letter--which I could tell was very difficult for her to write.

All throughout this process, Jason has been excited for me, supportive of me and encouraging me. In fact, he's been the kick in the butt that I needed to just keep pursuing things. I did all of the writing and processing of emotions while he came along side and gave me the strength that I have needed to keep working through this process.

I'm leaving for Korea in three days. Jason's has really encouraged me to do that too. "Go!" he said. He watched me wrestle with whether or not I should see my mom in person so soon. Then with more firmness he insisted, "You need to go." With that, I started the process of making plans to go there. I don't know why I don't sense the urgency like he does. But everyday he will count down for me. He doesn't say what, he just says, "Just think, seven more days." Then I will look at him and smile.

We've been shopping, buying stuff for the trip etc. Each step, he's been there with me. He will be watching the kids by himself while I'm gone. I have no worries there. He's organized and he has watched the kids for a week before. He will definitely want a break when I get back, but the boys are in good hands. I know I will miss them a lot while I'm gone and I do worry about that. Right now, how we will stay connected is not concrete. I am trusting that God will help us work that out.

So, that's how Jason is feeling through all of this. He's not as emotional as me, but very supportive and encouraging. Our whole family will make the trip in August together. The boys are very excited about that. God's timing is perfect. They are old enough to remember the trip and hopefully really enjoy it too.

Jason has been the impetus behind this whole adventure. He's been a big part of what I am doing now. I have told him so many times how thankful I am for him. I know I wouldn't be able to do this without him. He's really been the encouragement that I have needed. Thanks to you all too, who have really encouraged me and prayed for me. I am so appreciative!