Perhaps it does keep them young. A little later Mrs. Chedica showed us a photo album. She was seated at the table and Mihai stood beside her. Mihai teased her about something. She laughed, put her arm around Mihai, drew him close, and put her head against his chest.
Laughter comes easily in a home full of love.
At the other end of the table, the two girls stood on either side of the grandmother, leaning against her. As time stretched into the evening, we said our good-byes and left with the warm feeling that we'd always be welcome in this house. Driving to our hotel, we felt buoyed by the love and affection of the Chedicas' home. We were glad for the children who have found such a place overflowing with love and acceptance. I said a silent prayer, asking God to keep the bonds of this family strong through all that may lay ahead of them.