This crazy little boy came with a load of burdens that were not his to bear. But he had to overcome them anyway. The first weeks and months were some of the hardest days we have had but I honestly believe that we are better people for pushing through it. We have learned so much. So about that.........
I would not trade this parenting experience for anything. There have been days when I felt that all of my skills had been exhausted and were far from adequate. The calls from school, meltdowns, and obstacles. Many tears and much frustration. But most of all, overwhelming joy.
Levi is loving, caring, and thoughtful. Above all, he has always wanted to do the right thing, even when his actions have indicated otherwise. He adores his siblings and WORSHIPS his brother. He is funny, smart, engaging, and empathetic. His peers seek him out because he is fun, kind and hilarious.
The past few years have been hard. I am not going to lie. While we would never choose to have our family separated, we have had to make the excruciating choice to do so. We never wanted that, but it was the best possible decision for our family. Sometimes the hardest choice is also the best one. Another lesson.
Fast forward to today.......sixteen years after our frozen newborn baby joined the family. Levi has been back at home for over two months. For over two months, he has made good choices, practiced respect and humility, engaged with positive influences, and he has worked hard to prove his new and improved self. Our community has welcomed him back with kindness and we are grateful, as small towns tend to have long memories.
So here we are. This goofy guy will be sixteen years old tomorrow. He is a gift and a lesson. A blessing and a joy. He is a warrior and he has persevered through incredible adversity. Most of all, though, he is strong. I am so proud of his growth and his strength. His journey has not been easy but he has not given up. I have a feeling that sixteen will be the best year yet.
