Maria Sue Chapman 2003-2008

It seems that those involved in adoption/foster care are a close knit group. We share in our experiences both good and bad. There is a group of adopting/post adopt families that I am in regular contact with. When anyone has a placement success or finally gets to meet their forever child, their is a shared rejoicing. However, beyond those tight knit groups in church and community support/advocacy groups it seems that anyone connected with adoption seems to draw those involved together.
For many individual in the Christian (and into the non-Christian) communities, Steven Curtis Chapman has been a focal point, a spokesman and a standard bear, if you will, for those with a heart for God's children. Through his songwriting he has connected his personal experiences and passions to those of us needing the encouragement. Through his foundation Shaohannah's Hope (www.shaohannahshope.org) he has made a way for forever families to afford the often out-of-reach price of adoption. While many have experienced the joys and rejoiced along with the Chapmans as they have adopted several children from China, it is with heavy hearts that we grieve with them as well. Yesterday afternoon, the Chapman family lost their daughter Maria Sue in a tragic family accident. Maria was the youngest of the Chapman's children (she turned 5 years old earlier this month) and was one of three adopted girls from China. Pictures and videos posted on the web display a child with a beautiful smile and a joyful spirit. For those who listen to Christian radio you might be able to imagine her in the opening lines of Chapman's song, "Cinderella." It is a song that has new and poignant meaning in light of recent events. She will be missed.
I do not know if it is our place to question the motives of God in His heavens, perhaps it is. I do know that it is our place to pray, to support, to grieve, to love and to hope. Our thoughts and prayers go to the entire Chapman family and Franklin, TN community.

Those who would like to learn more please visit: www.stevencurtischapman.com