A smile from ear to ear greeted us as we entered the church where Devin feels most at home. You would think a teen who is in continuous transition would be tempted to act out, be disrespectful and angry about the predicament he is in. He has no control of his circumstances, only his future, and he knows it. 

It is refreshing to meet someone who has happily made the choice to be of service to others and the Lord of his own free will. Devin's foster mother, Irene, bragged and even said Devin is welcome to stay as long as he like. "He is a good boy- no trouble at all. Whatever he wants is fine with me." 

When I asked if he wanted to be adopted he hesitated. He wanted to clarify, he understands that living with someone is something to think about. Yes, he definitely wants parents of his own. He wants the right parents- supportive parents that listen to him and share their own feelings and situations with him. He says he wants a family like his foster family. A family that will understand the relationships that he has built and allow him to visit at least every couple of months. He wants a father who is spiritual and a mother who supports him. He spoke a lot of protection and loyalty. He wants parents who will protect him and he wants to marry one day and support and protect his family. He said he would like to go into law enforcement or be a therapist. 

He loves his grandmother who died in 1998. 

Devin said he is into the Lord and wants to learn all he can about the Holy Spirit. He also wants to learn about Native Americans (he has ancestors that are Indians.)

 It seems that he would prefer older siblings, but he said he would help with younger children. Irene says he is quiet and spends a good deal of time watching TV and  reading. He likes to work with his hands. He says if he ever gets upset or stressed he likes to take walks.

Devin is the greeter at the church and conducts Sunday school twice a month. He is the junior superintendent of Sunday school. (Irene says the mission ladies give him gifts for all of his good deeds, which he greatly appreciates.) Devin also works the video camera and records the service as well as duplicating tapes. He is very helpful and is on the kitchen committee. 

Devin makes his bed, folds his quilt and has great hygiene. He likes to dress nicely and takes good care of his things.

Irene says he enjoys the company of the deacons and often sits with people who offer him more of an intellectual challenge.

Most of all, Irene said he is pleasant. Pleasant- what more can you hope for?  Good luck Devin! You are a great kid.

For more information about Devin click here: http://tare.dfps.state.tx.us/search/ChildDetail.jsp?TareId=23719

~ Denice