People with "Issues"

I have noticed one somewhat unexpected thing while working with children from the Russian orphanage system: these kids are really not as "messed up" as we sometimes make them out to be. I in no way want to diminish the severity of being abandoned. I certainly realize and understand the bad effects of having been institutionalized. AND, thatt is exactly my point. These children would have been able to deal with their stress better, would have been able to construct a better work ethic and would have been able to graduate from their schooling fully prepared to live independently HAD they been raised by someone who cared. None of the kids we work with are somehow "too far gone". And we must add that in the economics of the kingdom of God, there is no such thing as "too far gone". I would even venture to say that the kids we work with really aren't "all that bad". TO be honest, I often come home from the Vocational Center thinking, "Gosh, I want to adopt at least 5 or 6 of these kids..." ALL they need is a home! All they really need is some type of constant loving presence in their lives. Of course, The Harbor's programs try to fill the hole left from not having a stable adult in one's life.... And it is worth stating that, even just a little love and care goes a LONG way. Another thing I want to point out is that we are ALL people with issues. I know that I have behavior issues, psychological problems, and most of all there is sin in my life. I am a person who needs help. I depend on others, for advice, encouragement and a helping hand. At the end of the day; WE ALL have issues. This is not unique to orphans. So, I thank God that he gave me parents who cared. I thank God that I was accepted and encouraged in my growing-up years. I thank God that I was helped along in dealing with my issues and I especially thank God that I was pointed toward Christ as the one who is the Great Healer and Helper. It is more than frustrating to see so many children who have been deprived of a home and it is especially frustrating and heartbreaking to imagine "what could have been" the case for these children. However,we at The Harbor know that it can be truly life-altering for these kids to run into people who dare to "imagine what could be" for them and in them. Thank you for daring to imagine with us.