Every child is different no matter what part of the world they live in. Some of our Sunshine children quietly slip in, gently joining in with their new forever families. Others, like Carlos, come crashing in...every action and word screaming out, "Here I am...Love me!"
When we first met six-year-old Carlos, he was very quiet and subdued. He spoke in whispers and didn't make eye contact with us. As we talked with the sisters at the Catholic orphanage where he was staying, I would catch him peeking my way. I'd look at him and he would quickly avert his eyes. I could tell that this little boy was taking it all in. This was a very smart little guy!
Carlos lost his parents at a very young age. He was then adopted by a woman who then recently abandoned him to the streets. He was found and brought to stay at this Catholic orphanage for girls until a place for him was found. The sister in the picture below shared with us that he keeps asking if his mom is coming for him soon. She also shared that he is full of energy and likes to touch everything. We were surprised because of his behavior with us so far.
Delcio and I were happy to make the 2 hour drive to meet him. We shared with him about our foundation and asked him if he would like to come home with us. He didn't hesitate to say yes. He went off to collect his things. He returned with a plastic grocery bag containing one short-sleeved shirt and one sweatshirt. Delcio and I looked at each other and at the same time said, "Looks like we will be making a stop at the store on our way home!"
We began our walk to the car to drive back to Matola. Carlos took my hand and walked alongside me. Before leaving, he shared hugs with the lovely sisters who had cared for him the past weeks. Children who go through such traumas are for sure in need of affection. We were happy to see he had been well loved.
We left the gate of the orphanage and Carlos jumped up into our car. We took a moment for our traditional "Coming home photo in the back of the car" photo.
It was at this moment when our quiet, subdued Carlos turned into his real self! A brilliant smile flashed across his face and up went his thumb to show that everything was great! From this moment on, he did not stop talking the entire trip home! Just writing these words makes me giggle. He is simply adorable...full of life, creative, and very intelligent.
We made stops along the way to purchase lunch, clothing, and a new school for him...as well as a few side of the road bathroom stops too! As we came into Matola, we stopped by our Sunshine Nut Company factory to introduce him to the staff and employees. Everyone rejoices when we bring a child home. He was welcomed with lots of hugs. He displayed very proper manners as he greeted and shook hands with many people. With others like Aida and Rosta, big hugs were exchanged.
It had been a long day. Five hours had passed since we first met little Carlos. It was now time to take him and introduce him to his new family. Carlos will be living in our newest house #7 with Monica as his mother. He will now have 4 siblings to entertain him... and to be entertained by him! Today Carlos has found his forever family!
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