Dear son,
Well, here it goes; I am long overdue for an entry. As usual, travel has played a big part in my absence. Since I last wrote, I have been to Houston, Dallas, New York, Burlington, and Seattle. In addition, we have braved 3 hurricanes in the past 5 weeks. Although, the truth be known, the real reason I haven’t written until now is because I have been holding my breath in fear and anticipation as I wait for the NAC to approve or reject my dossier. I finally received word (almost 6 weeks late) that my dossier was rejected. I was completely caught off guard. Two reasons were given. 1) My employment letter was not signed by the notary and 2) they claimed my Home Study was not valid because it was done by a licensed Psychologist.
After I calmed down, I researched their claims. My US facilitator was the one who provided my employment letter and her mom was the notary, so it is highly unlikely that there was a mistake. However, just to be safe, they are re-doing my letter and over-nighting it to me to send back to Ukraine. As for my Home Study, it is valid. In the state of Florida, psychologists are licensed to perform Home Studies for adoption. Once this fact is clarified with the NAC, we should be good to go. Nonetheless, there are still many obstacles to overcome. Married couples take priority according to Ukrainian law and they have no problem making sure singles understand that – especially single men.
I must confess, when I first received the rejection verdict, the wind was blown out of my sails. I seriously questioned whether I had what it takes to follow through with this effort. I realized the potential for pain and failure was high. After so much loss in my life, why would I set myself up for more? Then two things happened. I remembered that I do not believe in failure and my aunt sent me a link to a story that reminded me why I started this journey in the first place. That was all I needed to put me back on the road to you.
While at the convention in Seattle this weekend, I met a deaf man in the booth next to mine. He had the most adorable 2 ½ year old son named Jasper. It didn’t take long before Jasper was coming to me and offering me some candy. Actually, he was offering me to open the candy for him. We quickly formed a friendship and throughout the day Jasper would notice me, smile and come running over. I laughed inside myself as I realized the absurdity of me even considering giving up my quest to bring you home.
So, with that said, please hang in there. I’m on my way and nothing will stop me.
Love Always,
Dad
