September 2008, brought us a yard FULL of boys. As usual our 12 year, Ben (a collector of persons) gathered kids to play. He was always bringing people together, then bringing them home to eat. Among this group were 2 boys that caught my eye. Hard to miss, there was 500lbs between them! One in particular had quite a story and the more we heard the more my heart tugged. I want that child, I told God.
Over a 9 month period we got to know this gentle giant. Slowly, slowly he came closer: into the house, sitting at the table and sleeping on our couch. By June, it was obvious he should just move in. One day I asked him to think about it and he struggled at the kitchen counter for 2 days. It was a lot for him to trust anyone. We asked if he would like to become part of our family, to be one of our kids. He said yes.
That summer of 2009, Joseph “Keith” Knight moved into the guest room with a small box of personal things and a lot of insecurities. The transition from teenager to man started and it was miraculous to watch. He got his diver’s license, graduated from high school and received a promotion at work. His diligence in working out and eating healthier paid off in a 100 pound weight loss!!
He continues to get noticed, because of good work ethics, moving up in his job. He bought a motorcycle, then a car, upgrading again and again. He set goals and achieved them. Keith inspires us and challenges us to try harder. He not only has expanded our family, He has grown our hearts by bringing us closer together. Because of where he’s been, he doesn’t take anything for granted. He has this wonderful, simple way of looking at life.
“Thank You, Lord for bringing blessings when we least expect them. You are the giver of good gifts. “And she called his name Joseph [God will add] and said, May the Lord add to me another son.” Genesis 30:24
ForGlorySake! -Anna
