Ten years ago today, a baby boy was born in an Armenian hospital. He arrived to a mother, father and brother that had happily anticipated him. They had waited for him and prepared for him and celebrated his coming with extended family.
Ten years ago today, a baby boy was born in an Armenian hospital. He was strong and vibrant. He cried loudly and stretched his limbs. But his face was marred by a significant cranio-facial difference.
Ten years ago today, a baby boy was born in an Armenian hospital. His family looked at him in shock, confusion, and disappointment. Doctors looked at him in disgust and advised that he could not and should not live in open society. Rather, they suggested, he should be placed behind the walls of an orphanage where he would not offend or burden.
Ten years ago today, a baby boy was born in an Armenian hospital and his life's path changed in an instant. He did not go home with his parents and brother, but was sent into a secret, lonely place reserved for those who are different.
Ten years ago today, a husband and wife had just begun their road of adoption. Little did they know that their son to be was born mere weeks after they made the decision to adopt. Little did they know that the faraway baby boy with the unique face would be one of their greatest gifts, their hardest teacher, their most demanding challenge, their ultimate game changer, their most rewarding work, and the giver and receiver of deepest love.
Happy tenth birthday, Rex.
Your story changed our story.
And now there's the story of us.
Happy double digits Rex!!
ReplyDeleteSuch a poignantly beautiful birthday tribute. I'm not crying, you're crying.
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