We met with the judge this morning at 10:00. Mom, Mike and I all liked her and felt she had a lot of integrity. We were accompanied by members of the the social welfare foundation that cares for Ming, which is called Chung Yi. Our group included the assistant social director, Ming's social worker who has spent the entire week with us, and her supervisor. Ming went too, but was not present with the judge at the same time we were. The social worker who has worked with Ming during meetings with his biological mother was also there.
The judge asked us basic questions concerning why we chose Ming, how we would help him transition to life in America, and what our beliefs about raising children were. She asked us about the days we have spent with him so far and allowed time for us to share pictures and some videos. She also gave us time to share anything we wanted her to know. The judge seemed to be very responsive throughout this time (Ming's social worker Claire was our translator).
The judge also asked for the social worker on the biological mother's side to update her based on the 6 brief interactions Ming has had with his biological mom. She reported that the bio. mother is not able to properly care for Ming. The bio. mother is apparently young and is not confident in how to interact with him. She brings him toys but doesn't know how to play with him and build a relationship.
Following this report the judge said they will make a final ruling as soon as possible. She is aware that Ming is getting older and a decision on his behalf is vital. If the adoption is approved it would take 6 to 8 weeks to process everything before we could return to bring Ming Zong home.
Mike and I are of course hopeful, but trying to remain very guarded. This is an unusual situation and we don't know what to expect at this point. All we can do is pray and hope that our life with Ming doesn't end after this week. Ming spoke briefly with the judge before we left and told her he wanted to go to America and live with us. He did not want to speak to the judge and remained very guarded until we left the court. He has been there so many times and I think it just confuses and frustrates him. Hopefully today was the last time he will have to go.
So, Mike, mom and I have one more day with Ming Zong tomorrow and are going to enjoy every minute! :)
Don't know what to say. You guys deserve this. Good luck and tell mike F;(k You...
ReplyDeleteIt couldn't be more obvious what SHOULD happen. Any child who gets to live with YOU hit the jackpot in so many ways and I think that comes through so well from what we've seen of your time with Ming. That is already one loved and adored kid. We hope so badly that he finally becomes an official part of yours and our family. Love you guys SO MUCH and we're SO proud of you no matter what.
ReplyDeleteSo very happy to read through this tonight. I wish you guys only the best. It looks like you've had an amazing trip so far. :)
ReplyDeleteErnie - just catching up on everything. Your old pal Bert is praying SO hard for you!!! :) I know above all else, God has a Plan for both of you and for precious Ming. We are all pulling for you. What an amazing journey you are on...I hope, with every fiber of my being, that Ming will be coming home soon. Know that you are loved and being lifted up every moment!!! Have an amazing day together tomorrow...I love you so much!
ReplyDelete~Sheryl
Thank you all so much! Can't believe we fly home tomorrow. We just said goodbye and it was really tough. Praying the judge will make a decision very soon for all those involved. Hopefully, God willing, we'll be making a trip back to taiwan within a couple of months.
ReplyDelete