I’d like to introduce you to a precious 7 year old boy. His name is Wayland, and he’s amazing. He delights in simple pleasures and always has a smile on his face. He is joyful, friendly, affectionate, thoughtful, social, tender, and incredibly patient.

And he’s waiting for his family to find him.

Through a trip with The Sparrow Fund, I had the immense pleasure of meeting sweet Wayland. He had such a positive attitude and a palpable zeal for life. He smiled and laughed and looked into my eyes warmly. He sought me out and called me ayi without prompting. He affectionately hugged me and sweetly laid his head on my shoulder.

He talked to me during our time together, despite my limited understanding of Mandarin. That didn’t hold him back though. He taught me new words while patiently repeating each syllable over until I got it right. Such a smart boy and a terrific teacher! When he wanted something, he used words to ask respectfully, but accepted no when I couldn’t say yes. He asked me to pick him up so he could get a better look at new sights, and he was curious about everything that he saw. Handsome Wayland was a complete gentleman during our time together.

His repaired congenital heart defect does not hold him back – he is energetic and runs everywhere! He has way more energy than I do! He can dress and feed himself, use the bathroom alone, and understand directions. He also sometimes helps the nannies with chores. He goes to school at the orphanage, and is taught by a wonderful teacher who really cares for the children. He is working on typical age-appropriate skills, and can speak in complete sentences. He can sing preschool songs and loves to join in with games. He appears to be at age-level for most skills. He seems well-attached to his nannies and loves being social with the other children in the orphanage.

Sweet Wayland needs a family! I truly feel that whoever has the privilege of becoming his family will be incredibly blessed. He is a precious boy, but needs the title of son! He is designated Special Focus and is currently with Madison Adoption Associates. They have video and more pictures to review.

Also, up to $2000 in grants is available for his adoption fees! Please, if you are at all nudged to find out more about Wayland, email Sarah Hansen at Sarah@MadisonAdoption.org.