Dear Foster Parent,

There are some things I want to share with you. Things I noticed while spending time with my young friend who is in foster care. Although my perceptions originate from one specific child, I hope they resonate with you and provide encouragement.

The following list represents what I want my friends foster mom to know:

• She talks about you often.
• Asks when you will be back to pick her up.
• Easily refers to you as “Mom.”
• Happily shares that you call her “daughter.”
• Confidently includes herself when describing your children.
• Refers to your parents as Memaw and Pawpaw.
• Talks about how hard you work.
• Likes helping you.
• Proudly says that you help children.
• Wants to help children when she grows up.
• Is happy and secure, thanks to you.

So, in case you have not heard these things with your own ears, I thought you should know. What you are doing matters. Your sacrifices do not go unnoticed. There are difficult days, trauma-induced behaviors, and unanswered questions. Yet, in the midst of all this, you love. And love is the only thing which has the power to bring healing.

My Sincerest Thanks,

Kelley