We’ve seen and shared many different family stories here on Praise, but today’s story is a very special one that truly touched our hearts and left us speechless. It’s a story about unconditional love, a mother’s love that’s strong enough to break all fear, cultural differences, and life challenges. Jen’s love for her adopted daughter Eloise is thicker than blood. Join us as we share this heartwarming story along with precious moments captured expertly by the talented Roger Wu.
The Story
Jen: I am composing this article on the eve of my daughter’s fourth birthday. I can hardly believe how quickly the sand has passed through the hourglass. As Eloise slumbers next to me, I caress her cheek and think back to that magical moment when I became someone’s mother.
On the afternoon of September 28, 2009, I received the news that I had long waited to hear: There’s a baby girl who was in need of a home. My prayers had finally been answered; I was going to be a mother. Needless to say, there was not a lot of sleeping that went on that night. I lay awake in awe of the blessing that had been bestowed upon me.
Early the next morning, my friend and I journeyed to the birthing clinic in a rural area of Taiwan, where I prepared to meet God’s newest and most precious creation. As we entered the clinic, anticipation filled my heart. I was escorted behind a security door of the nursery and asked to wait in a small room. Moments later a small bassinet appeared in front of me. As I peered inside, I was instantly overwhelmed by the most intense feeling of love. From that moment on, my heart belonged to to this little angel named Yi-Jhen.
Jen: As the nurses prepared the baby for the journey to her new home, I was overtaken by mixed emotions. While this would forever be the most amazing and memorable day of my life, I couldn’t help but consider the feelings of the family on the other side of the corridor who was unable to care for this child and the sadness that they might be experiencing. I will forever be grateful to Eloise’s (Yi-Jhen’s) birth parents for their unselfish act of entrusting me to care for their little girl.
And now four years have passed. Eloise Yi-Jhen Wright is a healthy, happy, intelligent, and very outgoing little girl. I’m reminded every day how blessed I truly am when I hear the words, “Love you, Mama.”
Thoughts from the photographer
Roger Wu: I first met Jen and Eloise at a breakfast restaurant. The combination of Western and Asian food on the menu – black coffee and radish cake, caught my attention and I started to wonder what Jen and Eloise’s life together must be like.
At a convenience store nearby, three teenagers were looking at Jen and Eloise, discussing about this special mother-daughter combination. I couldn’t help but wonder how Eloise might feel when she faces doubts and questions from others around her, but the moment when Jen put Eloise on her shoulders and held her up high, I realized that none of those concerns really matter. Jen is not only a perfect mother, but also like a father. Where would Eloise be if Jen never appeared in her life?
When i saw them walking together towards the sun, it reminded me of the adventure in The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Jen and Eloise’s adventure will be filled with love and blessings.
About the photographer
With a combination of his love for fine art and innate eye for storytelling, Roger Wu captures images that truly illuminate special moments in life. He creates timeless images that reflect the special, unique details on your special day, from the biggest moments to the smallest touches.
Roger Wu: “Love is the spirit of weddings, and I follow Him. I love photos with true emotions – a mother’s tears, a father’s hug, and promises between couples, these precious moments only appear once, but through photography, they can be captured and kept forever.”
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