Letters from the Chosens

Send us Fan MailI truly believe that adoption is God's answer to child displacement. He provides a family and home for the solitary and the desolate. We get to discuss some common questions people have about adoption to bring awareness and encourage those who are called to adopt! Reflection questions What does family mean to you? How do you define family?Have you ever considered adoption? If you have, what has made you open to it? If you have never considered it, what has made you hesitant about it?What questions do you have about adoption or the process? What do you want to learn more about regarding adoption?Remember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose.Links & Sourceshttps://fosterlove.com/https://adoptuskids.org/meet-the-children/children-in-foster-care/about-the-childrenLetters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X 

Send us Fan MailDid you know that there is an average of 400,000 children in the foster care system at any given time? When people talk about the need, they are not exaggerating! Today, we share some questions and misconceptions that people may have about foster care. Please feel free to share your experiences, comments, and questions you may have. Reflection questions:What is something you could do for others in your community? Have you ever considered fostering? If you have, what has encouraged you to look into it? If you haven’t, what has made you hesitant about pursuing it? What questions do you have about becoming a foster parent or about the foster care system? Remember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose.Helpful links:National Foster Care Parent Association, https://nfpaonline.org/resources/The NY Foundling, https://www.nyfoundling.org/what-we-do/our-programs/child-welfare/foster-care/Resources, http://www.ed.gov/teaching-and-administration/supporting-students/special-populations/students-foster-care/resourcesLetters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X 

Send us Fan MailNow what? If you have ever reunited or reconnected with someone from your past, that’s the next question. What do we do with this new relationship? In reconnecting with my family back home, I have had to grapple with my response. My parents, other family members, and those in my circle have encouraged me to live my life while still challenging me to go beyond myself. In hearing how I have adjusted to reconnecting with my biological family, I hope it helps you navigate your own family dynamics, however they may look. Reflection questions:What are the ways you try to maintain peace in your family dynamics?What is your approach to sharing, giving, or loaning money to your family or friends?How do you approach brave conversations with your family or friends?Remember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose.Letters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X 

Send us Fan MailIn the summer of 2013, I embarked on my first trip back home to Ghana. My parents and I got to see some of the beautiful country, friends, and, most importantly, our family!I hope that hearing my story encourages you to take steps to learn more about your own story.  Reflection questions What is something new or adventurous that you have done What is one of your most memorable moments? What is a moment that changed your perspective or your direction?Remember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose.Letters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X 

Send us Fan MailMy desire to reconnect with my biological family began in high school, but it wouldn’t be until I was in college that I spoke to my parents about it. I wanted to share about how that conversation started and my mindset for reconnecting with my family back home. I hope that hearing about my journey encourages those on a similar path to reunite with their families or those who desire to learn more about their personal story and family history. Reflection questions What is something you would like to know about your past or your family history? What has motivated or inspired you to learn more about yourself, your past, or your family history?Who is someone you would like to talk to to learn more about yourself or your past?Remember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose.Letters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X 

Send us Fan MailThere’s always more, more we can be and more we do. This is how husband and wife Dan and Tynetta move throughout life. The two had been married for about years and felt a tugging to foster to adopt. Recently, they have been in the process of becoming licensed foster parents. Throughout the process, they have faced unexpected questions and grappled more with themselves over the deeper issues of God's heart for the orphaned and abandoned, and just how deep His grace extends to all people in every situation. With this in mind, they have opened their home to support as many children as God brings to their steps, and they hope that every child who walks into their home leaves different for the better. I hope that by hearing their story, you learn ways you can help and support the children in your community. Reflection questions What’s a recent step of faith you’ve taken? What happened? What’s an area of your life where you are being stretched beyond what you think you can do? Remember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose.Letters from the ChosensLetters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X 

Send us Fan MailI’ve learned that boundaries protect us and set us up for purpose. So we can set boundaries with everyone, our family, friends, and ourselves. It’s not about the person, but about the condition being produced. Boundaries help us to create healthy relationships. Reflection questions -What do healthy boundaries look like to you?-What has been the most challenging part of establishing boundaries?-What healthy boundaries do you need to establish for yourself? Remember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose.Letters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram XLetters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X 

Send us Fan MailWhen it comes to family and friends dynamics, I had to realize that boundaries begin with me. I had to recognize the things in me that needed to be addressed before I pointed out the negative actions or responses of others. I first set boundaries for myself, then for healthy interactions with others. It’s a work in progress! I hope that by hearing about my journey of healing, freedom, and peace, your faith in God is strengthened and your hope is renewed. Reflection questions What do healthy boundaries look like to you?What has been the most challenging part of establishing boundaries?What healthy boundaries do you need to establish for yourself? Remember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose.Letters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X 

Send us Fan MailMy own rejection wound when I was young made me see any separation negatively. I now understand that what I perceive as rejection is really purpose. God has used the rejection and abandonment that I’ve experienced in the past to get me to where I needed to be. Reflection questions:When was a time you felt unwanted or rejected? How did you respond?What are some things you do to combat thoughts or feelings of rejectionDo you know your purpose? If so, how are you walking out your purpose?Remember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose.Letters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X 

Send us Fan MailIt wasn’t until I was in High school that I started to doubt God. I questioned His goodness amid my challenges and the hardships of those in my community. It’s been a journey of learning about God’s goodness amid challenges. Here are some lessons I have been learning that have given me peace amid my challenges and everyday inconveniences.I hope that by hearing about my journey of healing, freedom, and peace, your faith in God is strengthened. Reflection questionsWas there a moment when you doubted the goodness of God? How did you overcome or how are you overcoming those moments of doubt?When have you demonstrated unwavering faith and trust in God? Why were you so certain? What kept you grounded in your faith?What have you learned about God in the midst of the trials, hardships, or setbacks?Remember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose. Letters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X 

Send us Fan MailI’ve been asked some interesting questions. Some that make you pause and wonder at the person’s boldness, and others that make me pause and reconsider my perspective. So here are a few questions that I’ve gotten, and in learning a little more about my journey, I hope it helps you along the way on yours! Reflection questions What is the most interesting question someone asked you?What’s the most laugh-out-loud question you’ve been asked? What’s a question you wish people would ask you? Remember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose. Letters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X 

Send us Fan MailTom and Laurel thought that they were done growing their family. They had two children and a dog. What more could they want or need? Except for one surprising day, they clearly felt led to adopt a little girl from the rural areas of Ghana's Ashanti Region. The journey to adoption and raising their new daughter in suburban America turned out to be more complex and challenging than they thought. Still, the adventure proved more rewarding than they had imagined. Reflection questions:What is a recent step of faith you have made? Have you seen the fruits of it?Is there any moment in your life that, looking back, you knew it was the hand of God?Remember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose.Letters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X 

Send us Fan Mail Tre went from a happy childhood full of opportunities, loving parents, and a close community to a rehab center by his senior year in high school. He mentally spiraled downward and became an addict by the age of 21. He shares the tumultuous introduction to adulthood that he never pictured for himself. In sharing his testimony, he sheds light on how our circle of influences can alter our future trajectory (story tells). He emphasizes the importance of knowing the truth to choose the path that leads to life.  (Life lesson)Hearing this powerful testimony will renew your hope and remind you that God is there even in your darkest moments.Reflection questions: How can unforgiveness affect your healing process and shape your destiny?What’s your main reason for forgiving others? Who or what helps you to forgive when it is most difficult?Remember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose. Letters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X 

Send us Fan MailTatiana unexpectedly found herself plopped in the suburbs of New Jersey, far from her home in Russia. In this episode, she shares her adoption journey, navigating her past and having challenging conversations that led to her penning her first book. Her testimony demonstrates that the more we know about our past, the greater our understanding of ourselves. Throughout her testimony, she notes how our hearts towards others can change when we look at life from their perspective. I hope  that hearing her story encourages you to undergo a paradigm shift and bravely face the challenges in your life, leading to meaningful conversations.Reflection questions:What are some wounded or broken areas you need to address to receive your healing and freedom?Who are the people within your community with whom you can be real about the challenges in your life?Learn more about Tatiana's private practice and journey on Speak for Joy Remember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose. Letters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X 

Send us Fan MailSometimes surrender is the only way to victory. Darlene found this truth out during her journey of healing. For almost all of her childhood, Darlene had bounced around from foster home to foster home. Each time she thought she had found solace, she was greeted with poor conditions and abuse after abuse. Her heart became hardened and calloused to the treatment, and she became closed off to receiving any love. She had to surrender and give God control over her will to find freedom. Her life shows that no matter what you are going through, you can overcome and experience greater victory in the latter years than in the former.By hearing this story, I hope you will see every mountain you face as defeatable and approach your daily challenges with a victor’s mindset. Reflection questions If you could ask your parents or guardians one question about your childhood, what would it be? How have you responded to the traumas from your childhood? How has it affected the conditions of your heart and mind? What are the steps, strategies, or resources you utilize to help you through your healing process? Remember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose. Letters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X 

Send us Fan MailCan you imagine losing a part of you, your family, all that you’re familiar with, yet having a positive attitude? Isaac is a living testimony of this. Isaac went from being a healthy child surrounded by family to suddenly becoming ill and spending years in a hospital. At every medical challenge, Isaac maintained a grateful attitude for all the people who helped him along the way. They inspired and motivated him, even during his most significant losses, to focus on all he had and all he could do, and to walk in faith. By hearing his story, you will gain a sense of hope to keep moving forward and never give up, because there is a breakthrough on the other side. Reflection questions:What or who are you most grateful for in your life, and why?What are things you can do to maintain a heart of gratitude and hope amid loss?Who are some people who helped to uplift you during your loneliest days or moments of loss?Contact for the guestIsaac Burton Photography, www.PicturesByIsaac.comRemember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose. Letters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I share my educational journey. I tell about how I went from being illiterate to teaching others to read and write in English. I hope my story will encourage you to overcome your challenges. Here are some questions to consider as you reflect upon your journey:Have you ever been told that you couldn't do something? Did anyone ever count you out because of their perceived outcome? If so, who were they, and how did you respond to them?Is there anything in your life that you think you cannot do? Are there areas of defeat within your life? How do you overcome the voices of doubt or negative voices that speak against your identity and purpose?How can you use your experiences and your gifts to help others? Remember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose. Note:Non-family members were given alternate names at the time of the recording. Below are their alternate names alongside their real names.George & Ruth Jones- Gary &RebeccaJacob- SamuelAma- Maggie Monica- JasmineMrs. Stevenson- Mrs. MartinMrs. Berry- Mrs. Barbella Mrs. Hernandez- Mrs. Jimenez Mrs. Kemley- Mrs. MarinoffKofi- Not knownLetters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I share my early years of navigating my hair. My Mom and I did our best using hot combs and pink lotion to achieve the image of beauty.In sharing my story, I encourage you to consider how individuals in your life and society's propaganda influenced your identity and self-worth. Here are some questions to consider as you reflect upon your journey:How do you define beauty or attractiveness?Who or what was a positive influence on your self-image and worth? What aspect of yourself are you most insecure about? How are you overcoming it, or how did you overcome it?How has the media influenced your self-image both positively and negatively?Remember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose. Note:Non-family members were given alternate names at the time of the recording. Below are their alternate names alongside their real names:George & Ruth Jones- Gary &RebeccaJacob- SamuelAma- Maggie Monica- JasmineMrs. Stevenson- Mrs. MartinMrs. Berry- Mrs. Barbella Mrs. Hernandez- Mrs. Jimenez Mrs. Kemley- Mrs. MarinoffKofi- Not knownLetters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I share about how my Mom received an unexpected diagnosis about my health and how she responded in faith. In sharing my story, I hope you will look for God's miracle-working hand in every obstacle you face. Here are some questions to consider as you reflect upon your journey:When was a time when you needed God's help the most?When was a time God showed up for you in your life? Who is someone you know who has demonstrated great faith?Remember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose. Note:Non-family members were given alternate names at the time of the recording. Below are their alternate names alongside their real names.George & Ruth Jones- Gary &RebeccaJacob- SamuelAma- Maggie Monica- JasmineMrs. Stevenson- Mrs. MartinMrs. Berry- Mrs. Barbella Mrs. Hernandez- Mrs. Jimenez Mrs. Kemley- Mrs. MarinoffKofi- Not knownLetters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I share how I finally found a permanent place I could call home. It was a bittersweet moment because I had to close the chapter of my life in Ghana and step into a new life in the U.S.In sharing my story, I hope you'll reflect on your childhood home experiences and consider how they shaped your mindset on what home life should be like. Here are some questions to consider as you reflect upon your journey:What makes a place a home or feel like home to you? Of all the places you've lived, where do you consider home?What is your favorite memory from your childhood home or current home? Remember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose. Note:Non-family members were given alternate names at the time of the recording. Below are their alternate names alongside their real names.George & Ruth Jones- Gary &RebeccaJacob- SamuelAma- Maggie Monica- JasmineMrs. Stevenson- Mrs. MartinMrs. Berry- Mrs. Barbella Mrs. Hernandez- Mrs. Jimenez Mrs. Kemley- Mrs. MarinoffKofi- Not knownLetters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I share how my parents first learned about me and the call that led to my adoption into their family. In sharing my story, I hope you will take the time to reflect on the moments when you saw God's hand at work on your behalf. Here are some questions to consider as you reflect upon your journey:Do you believe God is still intricately involved in the details of our lives? Why or why not? When has your faith been challenged or tested? What was your most significant leap of faith? What happened in the end? Remember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose. Note:Non-family members were given alternate names at the time of the recording. Below are their alternate names alongside their real names.George & Ruth Jones- Gary &RebeccaJacob- SamuelAma- Maggie Monica- JasmineMrs. Stevenson- Mrs. MartinMrs. Berry- Mrs. Barbella Mrs. Hernandez- Mrs. Jimenez Mrs. Kemley- Mrs. MarinoffKofi- Not knownLetters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I recount the first time I attended school. I thought it would be a piece of cake, but it wasn't as easy as I had thought. By sharing my story, I hope you will take a moment to reflect on how your educational experiences shaped you. Here are some questions to consider as you reflect upon your journey:What was your relationship with your teachers, and how did it help shape how you perceived authority?What was your most impactful experience in school? Describe something that was taught or done that positively impacted your life. Who was your most influential educator, and why? If you could change one aspect of your educational experience, what would it be?Remember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose. Note:Non-family members were given alternate names at the time of the recording. Below are their alternate names alongside their real names.George & Ruth Jones- Gary &RebeccaJacob- SamuelAma- Maggie Monica- JasmineMrs. Stevenson- Mrs. MartinMrs. Berry- Mrs. Barbella Mrs. Hernandez- Mrs. Jimenez Mrs. Kemley- Mrs. MarinoffKofi- Not knownLetters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I share my experience of living with the missionaries from one of our neighboring towns. They introduced me to American culture, food, and language. By sharing my story, I hope you'll take the time to reflect on your own childhood experiences and how they have influenced your identity and purpose. Here are some questions to consider as you reflect upon your journey:Who are the key figures who helped you with your schooling growing up?Who taught you how to ride a bike, cook, or style your hair, or other life skills?Who was the person who made your house feel like a home? Remember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose. Note:Non-family members were given alternate names at the time of the recording. Below are their alternate names alongside their real names.George & Ruth Jones- Gary &RebeccaJacob- SamuelAma- Maggie Monica- JasmineMrs. Stevenson- Mrs. MartinMrs. Berry- Mrs. Barbella Mrs. Hernandez- Mrs. Jimenez Mrs. Kemley- Mrs. MarinoffKofi- Not knownLetters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I share about the different homes I lived in after my mother passed away. When I was getting comfortable with one family, I was given to another. In sharing my experience, I hope you consider your experiences within your childhood home(s). Here are some questions to consider as you reflect upon your journey:What was your childhood home(s) like? What first comes to mind if you were to describe it?Have you ever had to move or relocate? If yes, how did you respond to the transition?What significant changes or interruptions occurred at home that impacted your development?Remember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose. Note:Non-family members were given alternate names at the time of the recording. Below are their alternate names alongside their real names:George & Ruth Jones- Gary &RebeccaJacob- SamuelAma- Maggie Monica- JasmineMrs. Stevenson- Mrs. MartinMrs. Berry- Mrs. Barbella Mrs. Hernandez- Mrs. Jimenez Mrs. Kemley- Mrs. MarinoffKofi- Not knownLetters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I share my experiences of living in various places before finding a place I could call home. I hope sharing my experiences will help you reflect upon your upbringing, particularly on the key individuals who helped shape your identity and forge your path. Here are some questions to consider as you reflect upon your journey:Who are the people who lent a helping hand in your journey?How do you feel about the way you were raised and disciplined? Do you have positive feelings about it? What would you do the same or differently as a parent?What do you consider to be your family's biggest strength? Is it their unity, hard work ethic, etc? Remember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose. Note:Non-family members were given alternate names at the time of the recording. Below are their alternate names alongside their real names:George & Ruth Jones- Gary &RebeccaJacob- SamuelAma- Maggie Monica- JasmineMrs. Stevenson- Mrs. MartinMrs. Berry- Mrs. Barbella Mrs. Hernandez- Mrs. Jimenez Mrs. Kemley- Mrs. MarinoffKofi- Not knownLetters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I share how I came to terms with having an absent father and overcame the "father gap" in my heart. In telling of my experiences, I hope it helps you to be reconciled within yourself and with those who stepped out when you needed them to step up. Here are some questions to consider as you reflect upon your journey:What was your relationship like with your father or parental figure? How did their involvement or lack of involvement impact your life?What was the relationship dynamic between your parents or guardians? How has their relationship dynamic influenced your relationships?What's something positive you've gleaned from your parents or others about what healthy relationships look like?Remember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose. Note:Non-family members were given alternate names at the time of the recording. Below are their alternate names alongside their real names:George & Ruth Jones- Gary &RebeccaJacob- SamuelAma- Maggie Monica- JasmineMrs. Stevenson- Mrs. MartinMrs. Berry- Mrs. Barbella Mrs. Hernandez- Mrs. Jimenez Mrs. Kemley- Mrs. MarinoffKofi- Not knownLetters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I recount my most significant childhood loss and my efforts to find comfort, security, and identity without my mother. I hope sharing my experience helps you reflect more on yourself and how you respond to the unexpected. Here are some questions to consider as you reflect upon your journey:How do you manage grief?What is the role of your community in moments of loss or tragedy?What does the healing process look like for you? What is your relationship with your parents or guardians like, and how has that influenced your life today? Remember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose. Note:Non-family members were given alternate names at the time of the recording. Below are their alternate names alongside their real names.George & Ruth Jones- Gary &RebeccaJacob- SamuelAma- Maggie Monica- JasmineMrs. Stevenson- Mrs. MartinMrs. Berry- Mrs. Barbella Mrs. Hernandez- Mrs. Jimenez Mrs. Kemley- Mrs. MarinoffKofi- Not knownLetters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X 

Send us Fan MailIn the first part of the podcast, I shared my personal story. In this episode, I share my story about my biological mother. Reminiscing about my few memories of her, I learned a little something about what love is.By sharing my experience, I hope it helps you reflect more deeply on yourself and how your early experiences have shaped your perspective on the world around you. Here are some questions to consider as you reflect upon your journey:How do you define love?How do you know when someone loves you?What was your relationship like with your mother or legal guardian growing up?Remember, God loves you, and He has chosen you to fulfill His good purpose. Note:Non-family members were given alternate names at the time of the recording. Below are their alternate names alongside their real names.George & Ruth Jones- Gary &RebeccaJacob- SamuelAma- Maggie Monica- JasmineMrs. Stevenson- Mrs. MartinMrs. Berry- Mrs. Barbella Mrs. Hernandez- Mrs. Jimenez Mrs. Kemley- Mrs. MarinoffKofi- Not knownLetters from the ChosensContact us at [email protected] us:YouTubeFacebookInstagram X