The Goodbyes That Matter Most
written by Kathy Lamberson, former house parent
Some days in this job feel endless—long nights, full schedules, constant needs. And then there are the days that make it all worth it.
Robert had been out of the house for a while, off at college, making his way in the world. But when he came back to visit, something was weighing on him.
“Are you guys staying here forever?” he finally asked.
I reassured him that no matter where we lived, we would always be here for him. But that wasn’t what he wanted to hear.
“I just don’t want to come home and visit strangers.”
That was the moment I realized something. This wasn’t just a job to us. And to these kids, we weren’t just staff.
We were home.
On his way out the door, Robert gave me a small smile.
“See ya. Love you.”
I barely made it to the kitchen before I started crying.
Those words—so simple, so casual—meant everything.
Celebrating Firsts
Later that week, we celebrated another milestone—Bill’s first real birthday party.
He was turning 14. He had never had a party before.
The cake, the ice cream, the presents, his favorite dinner—all the usual stuff—but this time, it was his.
Watching his face light up, seeing him soak in the attention and the love, was priceless. The kind of moment that stays with you.
It’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of schedules, paperwork, and exhaustion. But this is what we do it for.
For the ones who come back, afraid of losing their place.
For the ones who finally get to blow out birthday candles.
For the ones who, even if they don’t say it often, know they are loved.
That’s why we stay. That’s why we keep showing up. Because these moments matter.
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the moments that remind us why love is always worth the effort. We pray for children who long for belonging, for those who fear losing their place, and for those who are experiencing love in new ways. Lord, we ask that You bring new houseparents to fill the empty homes in children’s ministries across the country—parents who will be steady, who will celebrate milestones, and who will always leave the door open for those who need to come home. We pray this in Jesus’ Name. Amen.