Editor's Note: Window on the Clearwater has joined the Wednesday's Child network to help spread the word about children that are waiting for families to give them the loving care that they need. Each Wednesday we will profile a different child. For more information about Wednesday's Child and how you can be involved check the web site at: http://www.idahowednesdayschild.org/.

Jasmine

Age: 14

Jasmine has striking blue eyes that can both hide or reveal deep emotions, depending on the level of trust you inspire in her. She's turning a corner in self-acceptance. Part of that metamorphosis has taken place while singing along with pop, country and some alternative types of music. Like her eclectic taste in music, Jasmine is willing to consider an adoptive family that's unique--just like her.

"Hi, I'm Jasmine. I sometimes come across as shy or introverted, but I can also enjoy joking and fun, especially once I'm comfortable with someone. I can be a homebody. I'm content to draw, listen to music and spend solitary time. I'm a bit of a city girl. I like shopping and I might enjoy going to concerts, if I had the opportunity. I like to sketch and I'm artistic. I enjoy singing. I participate in choir at school. I like Math, but I'm not into Reading and Science. I'm going to be in 9th grade when I start school this fall. I look forward to classes starting. I want to go to college in four years. I might like to go into nursing or become a therapist of some sort. I would like to work with at-risk teens, maybe with those dealing with identity, depression or thoughts of suicide.

I would like a family that's accepting of who I am right now, because I struggle with my own self-acceptance. I don't want a family that's intent on molding me to who they think I should be or forcing their religion on me. I could do well with a single mother or couple, traditional or otherwise, that respects and likes being around teenagers. I would like them to know how much my sister [16] means to me. She is my life! They could help keep us connected by phone, Facebook, and sometimes with visits. She lives in Southwest Idaho, so it would be nice if they do, too. If they live in another state, I would want to know if they would plan for us to stay connected.

I've learned from foster families I've lived with what works and what doesn't. I like people who laugh and have fun being together. When I'm frustrated or angry, please give me permission to walk away and sort things out. We can talk things out later when everyone's calm.

Most of all, I would like a family that doesn't give up on me when I do something wrong. I'm a teenager and I'm not perfect. And I won't expect perfection in you."

Jasmine's current foster mom says she likes this young woman's spontaneous personality, especially when she's feeling happy and secure. "She's funny and she's fun to be around. She can be a good talker once she gets going. She's a little shy at first, but she comes around in time. Then she'll talk to you forever!"

If you and your home study reflect experience or knowledge of how trauma affects emotions, you will have the patience and unflappable ability to be the family sanctuary Jasmine deserves. She has a large network of adults who see so many possibilities in her future. They all genuinely love Jasmine just the way she is today!

Portrait by Barb from Barb Bergeson Studio Gallery

To find out more about Jasmine, adoption or becoming a foster parent, email the Idaho CareLine (Please include your zip code and city.) or call 1-800-926-2588. In Idaho you can dial 2-1-1. You may be asked to provide this reference number: 30539.

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