Just a few days ago,

I asked very close friends of mine if they were planning on attending our first adoption fundraiser. I bopped up to them very excited about the prospects and quite honestly knew their answer. They would be there, of course they would be there! I smiled looking forward to having a great time with them and having in mind the responsibilities I hoped to give them.

My happiness of the task was deadened by their hesitation to respond. Each of them blinked, took in a sharp breath. “Yes of course. If you want us to be there.” Responding with confidence but slightly disappointed and confused, I assured them I wanted their presence.
Several days later the rationale was made known.
They told us that although we have every bit of their love, support, and prayers, they could not give to us financially. They simply didn’t have the money. They would babysit, they would love and hug our little girl, and send prayers for all of us, but they simply couldn’t give. If we wanted them to be there for emotional support, for help with set up and tear down, and encouragement they would be more than happy to help. But if I had expectations of financial giving I would be disappointed.
I was grieved. Disappointed that I had led them to feel inadequate. Annoyed at myself that I had reminded them of one of the greatest stresses in so many people’s lives.  Money.  But the message I want them to hear loud and clear is this.
Anyone can give me a $20 bill.

Anyone can donate money to our cause. The $20, $50, or $100 they might have donated will not make or break this adoption.  But the lack of their prayers, support or affection could. The very relationship  itself is something I am depending on; much more so then any cash or blank check.
I explained this with as much sincerity as was possible. There are very few people in the world who are as close to our hearts as they are.  I want them with us on this journey. I don’t want to do it without them.
This fundraiser is not just about raising money to bring a child home.

It is about telling her story. It is about being part of the process; giving an orphan a family. I take joy in the fact  that people who have been touched by our lives may be touched by this.
It has changed our hearts. It is making us better people, bringing us closer together, and allowing us to leave a legacy.
Come and be part of this journey.

 Walk with us, wait with us, pray with us, and welcome her home with us. No one can give us the love of your friendship and the investment of your time but you.
If that is all you can give it is more than enough.