Daughters by Design

Daughters by Design
by Paula Jarot
hardback; 201 pages
2010

I first read Daughters by Design as a printed out manuscript with a pen in hand, in a hotel room in Laos while we were there for a high-school soccer tournament for Isaiah.  Paula Jarot, a talented teacher and good friend, taught Isaiah in elementary school and when she and Paul came to Russell and I asking for prayer over a big decision, I selfishly told her I would not pray if it meant they would leave Thailand.  She assured me that that was not the case, and so began the praying for what became an incredible gift from God, not just for their family, but for the whole community. 

As I re-read Daughters by Design, a decade later, again I'm so thankful for all God put into place as trust increased and prayer was answered.  This true story of the adoption of two Cambodian girls is sure to inspire.  Paula shares fears, hopes, trust, love and dedicated walking by faith as she and Paul say "yes" to God's leading each step of the way.  The journey did not end with adoption for they continue to live by faith, raising and giving guidance to two beautiful young ladies.  The cross-cultural experiences shared by Paula give a keen insight into the lives of those in Cambodia, a country filled with great hurt, yet filled with people of great strength.  Sivy and Sopeak are two of these.  They with tensity for life, did not give up when life was hard in Cambodia or when the challenges of learning English at a school much different from what they could ever picture became their reality. If you would like an heart-felt story of a journey with God, this book is one I would recommend.  Thank you Paula for your dedicated life, for your godly example, and for your willingness to share your experiences with others through your story.  Chapter 24 is especially good.