Three years ago today

Three years ago today, I took a day off to catch up on essay grading. It was a random Thursday to pick, but I soon learned that it wasn't so random; there was definitely a reason I was home that day. That morning, I got a call from the Foster Care Placement Coordinator about a two-year-old boy who needed a home--maybe a forever home. She asked if I was interested and told me that he would need to be picked up that day so he wouldn't exceed his 24-hour shelter placement. With shaking hands and a shaking heart, I installed the car seat and gathered a few toys to entertain him during the trip Urgent Care I was told he would need. I drove to Hayward with the directions in my hand to pick up that boy who would forever change me.

I don't think about Jabbarri every day anymore, but, every once in a while, I miss him in a way that aches. I wonder if he's safe and loved. I wonder if his kindergarten teacher is kind (or if he went to kindergarten this year).  I wonder about his language development and his emotional security. I wonder.

That little boy with the big, smiling eyes and infectious laugh made me a mother. He has part of my heart--forever.