Here's one life lesson for ya. Listen and learn. Remember how I said people reacted when we decided to adopt Corey? Well, I left one out because it demonstrates Rule J. Some people said, "Oh, that is so sad that his parents didn't want to keep him." They would have an attitude of sadness for him and often one of contempt at those birth parents who "didn't want" a less than perfect child.
Now is the time to consider Joseph. Take a spin through Genesis for this amazing piece of history. Joseph was not only abandoned by his brothers, they plotted against him, almost killed him, then sold him; they then actually staged it so their father would believe that their baby brother Joseph was killed by a wild animal!! The rest of the story....Joseph's brothers travel to him in a far off land years later, where he is in a position of great power, and the brothers have been sent by the father to beg for food for their family. Joseph recognized his brothers but they don't have a clue this is the one they betrayed. In the end, the brothers realize their lives are in Joseph's hands; Joseph forgives them, the family is reunited and the lives of many are saved. Joseph says, "Don't be afraid. Am I in the place of God? You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. So then, don't be afraid. I will provide for you and your children." And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them." So understand that you can't see the big picture; God can. Rule J- Be careful when you judge a person or situation.