To My Foster Parents With Love

I came into your lives a lost and lonely child,

Full of anger and resentment,

Overwhelmed with fear and confusion.

Yet you took me into your home, your lives, and your hearts.

From the very beginning you tried to make me feel welcome and wanted.

Though I fought you each step of the way you never gave up on me.

Instead you patiently and lovingly took me under your wings,

protecting, guiding and shaping me.

Showing me love and understanding.

Giving freely and openly the praise and affection I so desperately needed.

All the while expecting nothing in return.

As days turned into years you were still there

Making me feel safe and secure,

treating me with respect and fairness,

pushing me to be the best I could be.

And still, there I was fighting you.

Oh, the pain and heartaches you endured at my hands.

Yet there you stood, firm and unwavering.

Never walking away, never giving up.

Always loving me no matter what the cost.

All these years later as I look at my own children

I realize just what you saw and still see when you look at me.

Your Daughter!