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Oh, there you are.

Honey, you're gonna have to stop doing this to yourself.

We're going to get through this, Janice, I promise.

Calvin, you seem a little distant.

Is everything okay?

You know, I've been thinking,

I've been thinking a lot about our situation.

We both know that we can't have kids of our own.

No, we tried everything.

Not quite everything.

It didn't breaks my heart, just thinking about it.

What can we do?

There's one option left.

We can consider adoption.

Janice, there are so many kids out there who are in need

of a loving home, and I believe our home can offer that.

Are you saying we can adopt a child?

Yes, any age you want.

We've built a strong foundation

and I believe we can provide a secure

and a nurturing environment.

Plus, we have the space.

You are right.

We can definitely make a difference in a child's life.

I mean, since we can't have our own children,

I'm sure God would want us to be a blessing

to another child who's in need of a home.

So is that a yes?

Yes! Yes!

Let's reach out to Lita's Adoption Center

and get this ball rolling.

Yes, come in.

Hi, Ms. Bennett.

Hi.

Here's Joy's file.

Thank you so much.

Waiting on this...

Excellent.

New beginnings for Joy.

All right, Calvin and Janice Nelson.

- Hey. - What's going on?

- Like your flowers? - I do. Thank you.

You are welcome.

You deserve 'em.

Thank you.

- Pretty, ain't they? - Yeah.

- Hello? - Hi, this is Dolores Bennett.

I'm calling from LAC.

May I please speak with Calvin or Janice Nelson?

This is Calvin.

You say you're calling from where again?

LAC, Lita's Adoption Center.

Janice, come quickly.

Yes, Ms. Bennett, both my wife and I are here right now.

Awesome.

Well, I am thrilled to inform you

that everything on your application was approved.

Am I hearing you correctly?

Joy is our daughter now?

Yes, ma'am. She is.

When can we come get her?

Gimme a few days to finalize some paperwork

and I will call you to schedule a day

to pick up your daughter.

Thank you.

Thank you so much, Ms. Bennett.

Yes, thank you, Ms. Bennett.

We hope to see you in a few days.

Okay, bye.

Bye-bye, see you soon.

My goodness.

I cannot believe it.

We are about to be parents.

Wow, this is amazing, babe.

This is so wonderful, thank you so much.

We deserve it.

Yes, we do.

It is so nice to see you again, Mr. and Mrs. Nelson.

It's a pleasure.

- Good to see you. - Thank you.

You know, Joy is truly a special little girl.

All God's children are special.

But what makes Joy so special?

Hmm, well, her situation is different from the other kids

that are brought here.

Both of her parents were killed in an accident.

Oh, no.

Yeah, but she has such an incredible spirit.

It just shines through every moment.

You will see.

Also your home will be the first home

that she'll be moving into since she's been here.

So what makes her special

is her resilience.

It's simply remarkable.

And her imagination knows no limits.

Her story has touched our hearts deeply.

We look forward to showering her with lots of love

And welcoming her into our family.

We promise to provide a nurturing

and supportive environment for her to grow and blossom.

Yes.

Well, if you are ready for her,

I'll call and have them bring her down.

Yes.

Alright, let's do it.

Yes, can you bring Joy down to my office right away, please?

Thank you so much.

She's on the way.

I can't believe we're waiting on our daughter,

Janice, we're going home today with our daughter.

Oh.

Hi.

Thank you so much.

Baby.

Well, Joy, meet your new mom and dad.

Hi, I'm Joy.

I'm your mom and that's your dad.

Can I call you mommy and daddy?

Yes, sweetheart, of course.

Thank you for believing in us

and entrusting us with Joy's future.

We will cherish her

and give her all the love that she deserves.

I knew from the very beginning

that Joy was a perfect match for your family,

and I have no doubt

that you all would take excellent care of her.

Congratulations again.

Thank you.

Thank you,

Joy, you ready?

Yeah.

All right.

All right, let's go.

It's been a pleasure.

Thank you,

Honey, how was school today?

It was okay.

The look on your face says otherwise.

Joy, did something happen?

It was fine until they started teasing me.

Who was teasing you, and about what?

The girls in my class keep saying, I don't have any hair,

and that's why I get hair extensions.

You know there's no truth to that

so you shouldn't let that bother you.

Sweetie?

I'll try.

Oh, don't forget my birthday invitations.

They're right here.

Can I fill them out when we get home?

Why don't you do that tomorrow?

That'll give you something to do.

- Okay. - Okay.

I made it.

What did you make, honey?

Oh, nothing.

Hey, good morning, babe.

Hey.

Hey.

Mommy, Daddy, I finished all my birthday invitations.

Great job, sweetheart.

So how many kids are you inviting?

I used all the invitations mommy gave me.

Huh.

Janice, how many invitations did you buy?

Oh, I just bought two packs of 24 in each.

She's inviting 48 little people.

Not funny, Joy.

48 isn't a lot, babe.

That's why it's called a party with a lot of guests.

Honey, that's like a field trip

with a whole class of second graders running around.

Daddy, you can run around and play with us too.

Run around and play with y'all?

Lemme tell you something:

If dad starts running, it's gonna be right out of that door

until the party is over.

Daddy? No.

Then you'd miss all the noise and all the fun?

Joy, the noise would be dad's reason for running out

of that door in the first place, okay?

Listen, you're gonna have to take some

of those names off the list, okay?

Okay.

I removed two.

Honey...

Here, you can't invite your whole class.

Take 10 of these invitations, okay,

who you really want to celebrate with, okay?

Okay.

Take those invitations, give 'em to your mom.

Alright.

Here you go.

Thank you, baby.

A potential of some shallow landslides

and the potential of some severe thunderstorms.

So get out the door right now before noon,

especially if you live in the North Bay.

We're gonna be watching some severe thunderstorm potential--

Why are you trying to make Joy reduce her guest list?

That's way too many kids

for a seven year old's party.

If Joy wanted her whole class to be at this celebration,

then why don't we just move a party to a classroom?

Because they will only allow them

to have a 20 minute cupcake break,

and then back to school work.

Okay, and?

The problem with that is?

She's turning seven, not 70.

Are you serious right now?

You got it twisted.

A 70-year-old should have a 20 minute cupcake party,

not a 7-year-old.

They want to run around and have fun

and be loud for hours.

Exactly, and that's what I don't want here in our house.

Honey, look, do the math.

What comes with 48 kids?

I don't know, gifts?

48 parents will arrive with these kids.

That's 96 guests.

And that's not even including our family members.

I really don't see the problem.

It's a party.

Where is your party spirit?

It won't be here on that day

because I'll be the one left behind having to clean up

after darn near 100 people.

So Joy won't be using nowhere near the amount

of invitations that you've bought.

Whatever.

I'm serious, Janice,

You and Joy can go to church tomorrow.

Really?

Another Sunday you won't be attending church.

You and I both know they could care less about them people

up in that church.

All they care about is they tithes,

and that's all that matters.

Don't worry, I'll ask God to forgive you for that comment.

And while you at it, don't forget to tell God

how controlling you trying to be about Joy's party.

Goodnight.

Is mom coming later?

No, I don't think so.

Ephesians, chapter four, verse 32.

God says, "Be kind to one another.

"Forgive one another..."

The same way God forgave you.

Because we know that when the kindness

and the love of God, our savior, when He appeared,

He saved us.

And not because of some righteous thing that we had done,

but because of His mercy.

Preach.

So always remember to pray first

and to think before reacting

because God is always watching.

Amen.

You too.

You guys have a blessed weekend

and I will see you next Sunday.

Amen.

That was good, ready to go?

Yep.

Hey, Brother Calvin, you have a minute?

Sure.

How's everything going?

Everything's fine.

And Sister Janice?

She's fine.

Is there something particularly you're trying to ask about?

Well, it's just, I haven't seen her

over the past few weeks, and you know,

church attendance is everything.

Well, she's fine.

I guess she just wanted to take a little break.

A break from church?

Yeah.

Well, now you know God don't want us

taking breaks from church.

Well, you know Janice.

Janice does what she wants when she wants.

At least Joy and I here every Sunday.

Daddy, daddy.

Church is like school?

They take attendance too?

Well look at Joy, asking about church attendance already.

You gotta catch 'em while they're young.

And yes, attendance in church is very important.

- Why? - Well, when you miss church,

you're missing valuable lessons

directly from God's teaching.

I have two teachers, Ms. Anderson in school,

and one at church.

You have four teachers,

your teacher at school, your pastor,

your mom and I.

Oh, speaking of your mom,

I think we better be heading that way pretty soon.

Pastor, have a great week.

See you next Sunday.

Alright, and make sure you bring the Missus.

I won't forget to invite her.

Now whether she comes or not, that's totally up to her.

Have a blessed day, Pastor.

Alright, you too.

Stay blessed, brother.

Yes sir.

Praise God.

Great service, right?

Great work.

I'm so glad you enjoyed it.

This is my grand-baby, Summer.

How're you doing, Summer?

Is that your real hair?

No, it's extensions.

Why do you wear extensions every day?

Because I like them.

I don't ask you why do you wear your hair like that?

I know why.

She doesn't have any hair.

Is that the reason, Joy-with-no-hair?

God says we shouldn't judge.

God says, say it with me--

God says we shouldn't judge.

But we're not judging.

We're stating facts.

You don't have hair.

Just because I have braids doesn't mean

I don't have hair, Sarah.

Yes it does.

No it doesn't.

- Hey, Mr. Nelson. - Hey Ms. Brown.

Hey Joy.

- Hi Dad. - Where's the joy today?

It was okay until Sarah and Annie started teasing me again

about my braids.

Maybe they like your hairstyle,

but just don't know how to show it.

They don't like it, dad.

They were making fun of me

of wearing my braids all the time.

Well, they don't need to come to your party then.

We want friendly, happy kids at your party.

Not troublemakers.

What's funny?

They are troublemakers in school.

How did you know that, dad?

Oh, I've had my fair share of troublemakers in life.

Unfortunately, it won't be your last.

So are you inviting them to your party?

No.

I didn't invite Sarah or Annie to my birthday party.

Hey, don't forget your backpack, honey.

Can we stay in the car a little longer?

- Why? - I'm scared.

Scared, of what?

The dog next door.

Oh, she's harmless.

She chases me every time I get out of the car.

Like she's on a mission.

She doesn't want to attack you.

She's a friendly dog.

Joy, will you get out of the car?

Okay.

Did you see that Dad?

She's trying to attack me.

Why can't she stay in her yard?

She's not trying to attack you.

Get in there.

Okay.

♪ Even if I'm far away, I think about you every day ♪

♪ And now I just wish you could stay ♪

♪ For another week or two ♪

♪ I'd take you wherever you want, girl ♪

I'll get it.

Thanks for managing the door, Brittany.

You're welcome.

Hi.

Oh, Joy, let's play a game.

What game, Brittany?

The game we always play

This...

Honey, I told you I didn't want a lot of guests showing up

to Joy's party, but more and more are showing up.

Can you not?

It's Joy's party.

That's why more people are coming.

I hear a certain little one's celebrating

their seventh birthday.

Auntie Kay.

Hey Joy. Happy birthday.

Here, I have something for you.

What is it, Auntie Kay?

Do you wants your Auntie Kay to tell you what it is?

You go put that gift with the other gifts and go play.

Thanks Auntie Kay.

I love you.

Oh, I love you too, Joy.

Hey big bro. Hey Janice.

- Hey sis. - Hey, Kay.

I didn't think you were gonna make it.

I wouldn't have missed my niece's party for nothing.

You're such a spoiler.

Now, the rest of y'all's birthdays,

that's a different story.

Whoa, she had a really nice turnout.

Too many people.

I specifically told Janice not to invite a lot of people.

But you completely disregarded what I said.

Well, I mean, I didn't mean to start anything, but...

Look, Calvin, I'm not having this conversation

with you now or later.

This party will go as I plan.

- Sweetie, are you having fun? - Yes.

But are you my mom happy?

Of course.

Mommy and daddy are just having

a little conversation right now.

About my party isn't it?

Now you go finish playing with your guests.

Yeah, go have fun.

We're fine.

Okay.

Mommy, are you excited like I am?

Of course she is.

The party's going just as she planned.

It's your special day.

Now go have some fun.

Are you happy now, Calvin.

Thanks to you, Joy's upset now.

Who's ready to sing "Happy Birthday?"

♪ May God bless you ♪

♪ in whatever you do ♪

♪ May God bless you ♪

♪ May on your dreams come true ♪

Which one do you wanna open?

That one?

Okay.

A phone.

Oh wait, who am I gonna call?

I don't have anyone's number.

I'm sure you'll find someone to talk to.

How about you open up your next gift.

This is the best gift ever, Auntie Kay.

You really like that phone?

Now, I don't know who you gonna call,

but how about you open up your other gifts.

Can I open my gifts later and go play?

Sure you can.

Alright!

Calvin.

- Hey. - Hey.

Thanks for inviting us out.

We really had a good time.

Absolutely, have a great night.

- Thank you. - Yep.

Hi, God, it's me, Joy.

Thank you for making this the best birthday.

Please bless my dad, my mom, and me.

Oh, and my auntie Kay for giving me this phone

so I can talk to you.

Amen.

And don't forget to wake us up tomorrow morning.

Amen.

Just like I thought.

Just like you thought, what, Calvin?

I can't believe you still running

around here fussing about your daughter's party,

which was a success, if I may add.

We had way too many guests, Janice.

But you won't admit it

because that's exactly what you wanted.

It's not about the number of guests.

It's about Joy's happiness.

Why did a 7-year-old need to invite

so many kids to a party?

We will not be throwing enormous parties

like that every year

Until Joy is 18,

her parties will always be planned my way.

And the sooner you get that through your head,

the better off we'll be.

You want to throw these extravagant parties,

then you handle the aftermath.

I am done for having a clean up after everyone.

And you've got the nerve to be laying in bed, relaxing.

Hi God.

It's me, Joy.

I don't think Dad was happy about my birthday party today.

They argued a lot.

A whole lot.

Please make them stop fussing and be kind to each other.

Amen.

- No help from you whatsoever. - Are you done?

Good morning, Joy.

Who is that 7-year-old big girl in my kitchen?

Joy, what's wrong?

I thought my birthday party would be special.

- It was special. - No it wasn't.

Why do you feel that it wasn't special?

You had a lot of people that came out

to your party to celebrate you.

'Cause I heard you and Dad arguing

about too many people being here the whole time.

Your dad just has some things to get used to,

don't you, dad?

Joy, you know your dad has never lied to you before,

and I'm not about to start now.

Dad felt like--

Calvin don't.

There were way too many people at your party yesterday

and that was a discussion between mom and dad.

We didn't mean to upset you.

If you hadn't made such a big deal about it,

she be sad this morning.

This is all your fault.

Let's go, Joy, so you won't be late.

Grab your backpack, your lunchbox, and let's go.

Learn something new today, baby,

and have a great day.

Okay, I will.

Bye, mommy.

Especially if Sarah and Annie don't come to school today.

I know, right?

Reading that was super-cool.

That story was awesome.

Look, Annie, her hair's in the same style.

Are you surprised that's the only style she wear?

Don't you guys have something better to talk about?

Yeah, a new hairstyle for you.

God, please make them stop teasing me.

Let's go.

Today we'll be talking about exploring change.

Change means when something becomes different

or something new happens.

For example, has anyone seen a caterpillar

change into a butterfly?

Yes.

Can anyone else give me an example of a change?

Caleb?

We used to live in an apartment.

Now we live in a house.

Yes. Very good.

That is a form of change.

Anyone else?

Sarah?

If Joy changes her hair from braids to another style,

would that be a form of change?

Yes, that would be a change.

But Sarah, that's not the form of change

that we're exploring today.

Okay, who wants to help pass out homework?

Thanks, Joy.

Tonight, your homework is on critical thinking.

I want you guys to use your imaginations

and write out two ways in which it can change.

You can even draw pictures to make it more fun.

Now you guys are dismissed.

- What's wrong? - That dog. She's so mean.

She's always chasing me.

That dog is not mean.

I have to run back to the office

to grab a file I've been working on.

I'll be back shortly, okay?

Okay.

Well, Joy, don't get too comfortable.

I need to run to the store.

Can I stay here, please?

No, you're too young to stay home by yourself.

I promise.

I'll go in my room and lock the door.

I won't come out until you return.

Don't be silly. The answer is no.

So let's go.

Okay.

Unlock the car, mom.

Hello?

Hello, Calvin?

This is the Pastor.

I was calling to check in with Sister Janice.

She's not here right now, Pastor.

Okay, well let her know

we miss seeing her at church.

Daddy, we're back.

Oh wait, Pastor, you are in luck, she just walked in.

Hold on a second.

It's for you.

Hello?

Hello, Janice, it's the Pastor.

How are you?

I'm well, and you?

God is good.

Is everything okay?

I'm fine.

Did you need to speak back to Calvin?

Actually, I wanted to chat with you.

I haven't seen you in church over the past several weeks.

I can't be missed, Pastor.

You have a whole congregation to keep you busy.

That's true.

But when members' attendance start going off course,

I need to find out why.

Is there a reason why you haven't attended church?

I appreciate your concern, Pastor,

but I'm just not in the mood for church right now.

Oh, I see.

That's more reason for you to join us every week.

You know, church can be a source of comfort

and strength during challenging times.

I never said I was facing anything challenging.

You know, okay, thank you for calling, Pastor.

Well, our doors are always open

if you need to talk.

Will we see you Sunday?

I'll try.

Alright. Bye-bye.

Hi God.

It's me, Joy.

My mom talked to the pastor today

and I can tell she wasn't very happy with him

or my dad for giving her the phone.

Do you know what's wrong with her?

Please touch her with kindness.

Amen.

Why did you put me on a spot like that the other day?

- Like what? - With our pastor?

Well, he is our pastor.

Exactly, at church, not in my kitchen.

Do you even hear yourself right now?

The question is, do you hear me?

Don't do that again.

If I wanna speak with the pastor, I'll contact him

until then, all his future calls are for your ears only.

What has gotten into you?

You're short-tempered with me.

You're not attending church,

and now you are rude towards the pastor.

We used to be a team, Janice.

If I don't wanna sit here

and listen to his lectures,

what makes you think I wanna sit here and listen to yours?

God.

God, I know prayer unlocks the door of patience.

So I'm praying.

I'm praying that you unlock those doors

of patience right now, Dear God.

Please, unlock those doors of patience.

Daddy, you pray by yourself.

I do.

We all should pray to God, whether we're by ourselves

or in a group.

- Can I tell you a secret? - Sure you can, sweetie.

I pray to God too.

Aw, that's nothing to be ashamed about, sweetheart,

and I know God is very happy with you,

But he doesn't tell me he's happy.

Does God only talk to adults?

Oh no, sweetie.

God is here for everyone

and he talks to us in his own unique way.

He has the whole world to listen to.

He'll get to your prayer soon.

But remember, you must keep the faith.

I love you daddy, and I love mommy too.

And how much do we love you

This much.

Amen.

Mom.

Yes.

Did kids ever tease you when you were in school?

I faced my fair share of teasing back then.

You're so strong.

How did you deal with it?

I didn't.

That's why I'm not taking any crap off anyone.

Honey, do you have to use that word?

What word?

Crap.

Joy's already dealing with problems in school.

Now it's the time to toughen her up.

She's going to hear and see more than that in the streets.

Then let her hear it in the streets.

If Joy having issues at school,

our home should be a positive place for her.

Over the years, I have learned that standing up

for yourself is vital.

I wanna be just like mommy when I grow up.

You should want to be like Joy when you grow up.

God wants us to be like ourselves.

Dad, I don't think God would mind if I'm like mommy.

That's my girl.

Hurry up and eat your food, okay?

Alright.

You done?

Yeah.

Okay, go ahead and get ready for bed.

Alright?

All right.

You and I both know that child doesn't need

to be following in your footsteps.

What's the problem now.

You wanna argue because she wants to be like me?

No, Janice, what bothered me is that you couldn't handle

this conversation in a more positive manner.

We are having a dinner conversation in our home,

not in our office group counseling session.

Hi God, it's me, Joy.

Can you get between mommy and daddy

and stop them from fussing right now?

I really want them to be happy.

Goodnight, God.

Amen.

Ahh.

Good morning.

Good morning, how's it going?

Good to see you, man.

Hi God.

How come I'm the only one my neighbor's dog chases?

Hey honey, are you ready to go?

Yep.

- I don't wanna go to school. - Are you feeling okay?

Yeah.

Then why don't you want to go to school?

'Cause of Annie and Sarah.

Honey, you're going to have to learn to ignore them.

Listen, I need to ask a question.

How many of you have ever prayed to God

and you felt like you didn't get an answer?

That doesn't mean that God doesn't hear your prayers.

Listen, the same way he enjoys us coming into the house

of the Lord, he also enjoys seeing us come

together in prayers.

Listen, I need you to get this.

In Matthews, the 18th chapter, the 20th verse--

Is Mommy coming to church with us anymore?

Of course she will, sweetie.

Just pay attention yo the pastor so we don't miss anything.

I'm there among them, meaning,

when two or more come together in agreement,

whatever they ask will be done.

Listen, I'm your pastor,

so listen, sometimes we got to think outside the box

and think of a more creative approach to discovering God.

I mean, God made it very clear in Matthews 18, didn't he?

Are you okay?

So listen, I'm your pastor--

Yes.

So what I'm encouraging you to do is--

Are we going straight home after this?

Unless there's somewhere else you would like to go.

No.

Circle and see what it does in your life.

Amen?

Amen.

Mommy, can we play dress up?

Not now, Joy. I'm busy.

Oh, daddy always plays with me.

You never play with me.

That's what daddies are supposed to do, okay?

Joy, I'll play with you.

Yay.

So what do you wanna play?

Hmm, dress up.

Dress up.

Okay, that sounds like a lot of fun and easy to do.

I tell you what, why don't you go

to your room and get dressed.

I'll go to my room and get dressed.

Okay.

And we'll meet up in the hallway.

Alright.

Alright.

- Daddy, are you almost ready? - Almost.

Okay.

On the count of three.

One, two, three.

We did it, Joy, we look good.

No, no, daddy, you put on the wrong outfit.

What do you mean I put on the wrong outfit?

This is my dress up outfit.

Church, not in the house.

I have to dress you now.

Okay, go pick out my outfit.

Huh, that feels awkward

Are you finished yet?

One second. No. Peaking.

Okay.

♪ Take a holiday ♪

♪ Where you hide away ♪

Three, two, one.

Tada!

Joy, what did you do?

Dress up, daddy.

Come here.

Dinner's ready.

Get back here.

Joy, go wash your hands.

Okay.

I'm gonna get you later.

Calvin, you look crazy.

Change your clothes before you sit at the table with us.

It's called playing.

If you spent more time with Joy, you would understand

what parents would do for the sake of that kid's happiness.

Happiness, looking like that?

What is wrong with you?

We'll finish this conversation later.

So now you're tired from running

around here earlier looking crazy.

Let it go, Janice.

I'm trying to go to sleep.

I will not.

Did you think it was cute to let our 7-year-old daughter

put a robe on you,

a wig on your head, and lip gloss on your lips?

Do you know how to parent?

Don't you ever question my parenting skills.

You need to be asking yourself that.

Or maybe you are the one who needs

to be taking parenting classes.

Look, all she wanted to do was play dress up

with her mom.

As in you, Janice.

You turned her down.

What was I supposed to do?

What were you supposed to do?

I can tell you what you weren't supposed to do,

and that was to not let a 7-year-old put a wig on your head

and lip gloss on your lips.

Maybe if you learn to set aside some time

to be more involved in Joy's life, then maybe I wouldn't

have to play both Daddy and mommy.

Hi God, it's me, Joy, and my dolls.

We're asking for miracles.

There are things going on in my life that need to change.

Daddy and I played a fun game today,

but mommy is so upset with him.

Please make mommy's heart nicer.

God, I know you can hear them all the way in heaven

because there's so loud right now.

Fix them, God, please.

Goodnight God.

Amen.

Years ago, men used to not be

as engaged in their children's lives

and they would leave everything to the mother to do.

And I'm making sure that you're involved

in our daughter's life and not leaving everything

on me to do.

I could say the same thing, Janice.

Years ago, moms used to be extremely involved

in their little girl's lives, no matter what.

I love Joy and I would do anything for her,

such as you should.

But you wanna blame me and punish me

for other dad's lack of doing.

That is not my situation here and it'll never be.

I know it won't because I'm making sure of it.

I am not tired of doing everything for Joy.

But what I am tired of is having to watch her

go through life as if she only has one parent.

Look, Janice, you're here,

but you're not here when it comes to Joy

and that stops right here and right now.

Can't take this anymore.

Where are you going?

Calvin, what are you doing?

Calvin.

Calvin, why are you packing your clothes?

Calvin, what are you doing, what are you doing?

Calvin, what are you doing?

Calvin, what are you doing?

Where are you going?

What are you doing?

What are you doing?

I love you, Janice, more than anything,

and I love Joy too.

That little girl's been through so much prior

to us adopting her.

I can't continue to have her watch us fuss

and fight every day.

So I'm leaving.

I'll be back for my things later.

God, God blessed us, babe.

He blessed us with a opportunity to raise that little girl,

our only child.

We will not fail Joy,

and most importantly, disappoint God.

Calvin, please, please don't go.

I need you.

We need you.

Calvin, I'm sorry.

What have I done?

God, bring Calvin back to us, please.

Joy.

Yeah.

You wanna help Mommy bake cookies.

Ooh, cookies.

Yes, mommy.

Come on.

You wanna put 'em in?

Yep.

Okay.

Good job.

Let's see if it's done.

Yep.

Ooh, they smell delicious.

Be careful, mommy. It's hot.

Okay. Okay.

All right.

Daddy.

- Hey sweetie. - Do you want a cookie?

I would love one.

I'll take one cookie from you and a cookie from mommy.

Alrighty.

Here you go.

Thank you.

I'm sorry.

Joy.

Yes.

Hurry up, sweetie.

We don't want to be late for church.

Okay.

You look nice.

Thanks.

Calvin, if you gimme a few moments,

I can get dressed in, attend church with you and Joy.

Mommy, you're coming to church with us too.

Yes, baby.

Yay.

Take all the minutes you need,

But hurry up.

All right.

Joy?

Hmm?

You wanna give your hair a break from these braids?

Yeah, but how would I wear it?

You have beautiful long hair.

You can wear it out if you want to.

- Okay. - All right.

Well, find something on TV

'cause we're gonna be here all night.

Okay.

Now we're all ready to pray.

It's time to pray now.

I need you right here

and I'm gonna pray with you too.

Hi God.

It's me, Joy.

I'm going to school tomorrow with my hair out.

Please don't let Sarah and Annie tease me about my hair.

Oh, God, guess what?

Mom is much nicer now,

just like she was when I first moved here.

Amen.

Glorify, to give honor,

to exalt or admire.

Praise, to express gratitude.

To express how great someone or something is.

What's all the excitement about, class?

Ms. Anderson, look at Joy's hair.

It's so long and pretty.

Yes, it is.

You kids don't miss a beat.

Sarah and Annie, I see y'all are not teasing Joy today.

Her hair is longer than the both of y'all's.

What do you mean by that comment, Tania?

Sarah and Annie tease Joy every day

about her wearing braids and not having hair,

but they're not saying anything today

As they shouldn't.

Let this be a lesson to each of you.

I don't wanna hear anyone teasing anyone anymore.

Joy, you have beautiful hair.

Sarah and Annie, apologize to her right now.

Sorry.

I'm sorry.

It's okay.

As long as it doesn't happen again.

It better not.

And if it does, you come talk to me.

I am sorry we teased you earlier.

Will you be my friend?

Yeah, can you be my friend too?

We didn't know you had hair.

Sure we can be friends.

I've always had long hair.

Just promise not to tease me or anyone else again.

We won't.

I learned my lesson.

Yeah, me too.

Hey, Ms. Anderson.

Joy, you're dismissed.

Have a good day, guys.

Oh, you too,

Mom, mom, guess what?

What is it, sweetie?

You got an A on your test?

No, everyone loved my hair today,

including Sarah and Annie.

They were surprised to see how long it was,

and Ms. Anderson made them apologize for teasing me.

I'm so happy for you, Joy.

I prayed and asked God not to let them tease me.

God is awesome, isn't he?

He used Ms. Anderson to help resolve all

of your problems all through your prayers.

All right, baby, let's go.

Calvin.

Hey babe.

You won't believe the fantastic day

our little girl headed school today.

I'm all ears. What happened?

Well, when I picked her up, she was a live wire.

She was happy, excited, wouldn't stop talking about her day.

She said that everyone was shocked that she had hair.

I gathered they assumed she didn't

have hair under those braids.

Oh, our baby girl has hair.

I'm so glad we adopted her.

That's one of the best decisions we ever made.

Me too, daddy.

Me three.

And so the teacher made the girls apologize.

Hmm.

- I'm so glad that's over. - They're all cool now.

- Nice. - Yes.

Calvin, I am so sorry

for how I've treated you these last few months.

You've been spending so much time with Joy,

I just felt like I was not important.

Like I was neglected.

And I responded to you terribly, with no respect,

and no regards to your feelings.

I'm truly sorry.

Can you ever forgive me?

Babe, I wouldn't be a man of God if I didn't forgive you.

You are the best thing that ever happened to me.

Even when you withdrew from us, nothing changed.

Joy increased our family size.

She didn't replace.

You are my wife.

I vowed to love you for better or for worse.

That was your worst.

I love you, Janice.

Love you too.

Ew!

Let me show you what's Ew, young lady.

Now that is Ew.

I bet you won't do that again.

Oh, you're right about that,

'cause from this day forth, that is mom's job.

Do y'all hear me, ladies?

We hear you.

I am not gonna be scared. I'm not gonna be scared.

God, please make that dog stop chasing me.

Okay. Okay.

Aw, she just wants to play.

So cute.

Aw.

I'm so glad you guys can make it.

This is gonna be so much fun.

I know, right?

I can't believe Savannah came too.

I wouldn't miss this for the world.

It's Rae.

That's UM to you.

Hey girl, hey, what is up?

Where are you on your way to?

Remember, I told you I was gonna start

doing private lessons.

Oh.

Seven times already.

My first is what he get-o.

My first one is right here in y'all's neighborhood.

Hi, UM.

You forgot her name?

No, that's what everyone calls her.

I'm a dancer.

My street name is UM.

What does it mean?

It stands for Unique Moves.

Can you show us some of your moves?

Now you know that's right up UM's alley,

to whip out some dance moves.

Don't be throwing no shake.

Girl, whatever.

My wife knows you.

Oh.

Joy, I would love to show you and your friends

some dance moves and I'll do it for free.

How else were they gonna pay you?

They don't have any money.

Girl, get on outta here.

She's good. You'll see.

Ready?

Five, six, seven, and one, two.

Hit the back and dig, dig.

Shake it.

Shake.

Whew, okay, I'm done for the night.

Watch out for that invoice,

because if they can't pay me, you gotta pay me.

Watch out for that invoice.

Time for my other lesson, y'all.

Sayonara.

See you later, UM.

Bye, UM.

Oh boy. That was cute.

Mercedes, what's that on your arm?

It looks like a bump.

Oh, that, I'm not sure.

It doesn't hurt or anything.

One day it wasn't there, but the next day it was.

This was recent too.

Mom, Mercedes has a lump on her arm.

- Where? - Right there?

Hmm, I don't know what this is.

Has your mom seen this?

Yes.

Since your mom is monitoring, I'm sure she's aware of it.

You see?

Hmm. It'll be okay.

Let's finish playing.

Okay, but first, let's pray for your lump to go away.

God can do miracles if we pray and believe together.

Sure.

I'll be right back.

Okay.

Hi God.

It's me, Joy, and my friend, Mercedes.

I have a favor to ask you.

God, your Word says, "For where two or three

"are gathered together in my name,

"there am I in the midst of them."

Well, Mercedes has a lump on our arm that needs healing.

She doesn't know what it is, but we want it to disappear

before it gets worse.

In Jesus' name. Amen.

Thank you Joy.

No one has ever prayed for me or my arm before.

Thank you very much.

You are welcome.

Hi, Mrs. Nelson.

Hi Mercedes.

Hi Janice.

Hi Sharon.

Is Joy around?

Yes. Joy?

Coming, mom.

Mercedes!

Hi Joy.

What are you doing here?

Joy, we couldn't wait to rush over here

and thank you for praying over Mercedes arm.

God heard your prayers and healed that lump.

Look, it's gone.

Wow.

Thank you Joy.

I told you, Mercedes.

Yeah, thanks, BFF.

Wait, Joy prayed over your arm.

She's very good at it too.

We were so thrilled about her lump disappearing

that we wanted to come and show you in person.

That's a miracle because I saw it with my own eyes.

Oh wow.

Our prayers were answered.

Yes, so we have to run some errands.

We gotta go.

Bye, Mercedes.

Bye, Joy.

Bye-Bye.

Alright.

Bye guys.

Bye.

What is going on in here?

Room is a mess.

Oh my goodness.

You messed them up.

Messed who up?

Your room was already a mess, sweetie.

My dolls, they're supposed to be right there.

Where's my phone?

Hey, hey, hey, what's going on here?

Joy's upset about me moving her dolls.

And my phone.

Sweetie, I'm sure Mommy was just trying to be helpful.

- I know, but-- - I'll put them back for you.

No, I'll do it

Honey, just let Joy rearrange her dolls back

the way she had 'em.

Okay.

And here's your phone.

In the North Bay...

Mom, dad, can I ask you a question?

Of course, sweetheart, you can ask us anything.

Why did you choose me?

I mean, there were so many other kids

who needed to be adopted.

Why me?

Joy, we need you

to understand the decision to adopt,

it's never about choosing one child over another.

It's about finding that special bond, a connection that goes

beyond anything else.

But how did you make a connection with me,

and we never met before.

When we first saw your picture,

we couldn't explain it,

but we felt an instant connection with you

through your picture.

And at that point, we knew in our spirit

that God wanted us three to become a family.

But there were so many other kids who needed families.

They would've been great too.

You are right, Joy.

There are so many incredible kids

that's deserving of loving families just like you.

But the truth is, we can't save every child.

All we knew is that we wanted to give a child a home,

a loving family.

And when we saw your picture, we knew immediately

that you were that child.

Joy, we didn't adopt you because we felt sorry for you

or because we thought you needed us.

We adopted you because we wanted you, Joy.

We wanted to be your parents and to share our lives with you

and to give you the love and support that you deserve.

My baby.

Where you going?

Joy is truly a blessing from God.

Her presence reminds us of how family

and life should be, full of love and laughter.

I'm eternally grateful unto God

for the gift of our daughter.

I agree.

And to think, she could have been placed somewhere else

Or waiting for a family to adopt her.

It was God's plan.

It was her time.

Thank you God.

I'm so glad you thought about adoption when you did.

It was the Holy Spirit.

Was that the same Holy Spirit that told you to marry me?

Yes it was.

- Mom. - Yes baby.

Can we play dress up?

Sure we can, but I don't know what to wear.

Can I dress you?

I'm not liking this already.

I'll get everything for you.

Well, in that case, I'm ready now.

But me, no, I'd be walking

around here looking all crazy.

Calvin.

Yeah?

I can hear you.

Love you honey.

Mom, I'll be in there shortly.

Okay sweetie.

Wait til Calvin sees me.

Okay, mom, are you ready?

Joy's gonna dress me up all pretty.

Ooh, don't you look pretty.

Is that my dress?

Yeah, it's called dress up, mommy.

Oh well you look cute.

Thanks.

You're welcome.

Now cover your eyes.

Close my eyes?

Yeah.

Sweetie, I promise my eyes will not get

in the way of you dressing me.

Okay, but you have to close them.

I don't wanna close my eyes.

It's too late.

I'll have to cover them now.

Okay.

Mommy, you're gonna look so beautiful.

But first I have to do your makeup.

Alright, but promise not to make me look crazy.

Okay.

♪ Going to fly away ♪

Is that the foundation?

Mm-hmm.

Okay.

♪ Where I can hide away ♪

Now time for lipstick.

Okay, wait a minute.

Wait a minute, what is on my lips?

Joy, you promised.

You're fired.

♪ Life like summer ♪

Daddy, come here.

♪ Where the sun shines like ♪

Whoa-ho, great job, Joy.

Now I must say, you made mommy look way better

than you did daddy.

And I said to myself, watch Joy make mommy look so pretty.

Like she's going out on a date.

Huh, you know what, it's a great idea.

Let's go ladies.

I say let's go right now,

but I need to see what I look like.

Good point.

Joy?

Alright.

Okay, hold the mirror.

Three, two, one.

Oh my--

You like it?

Yes.

You promised to make me look beautiful.

You are beautiful.

I look beautiful?

Aw, you know I'm gonna get you back, right?

I am going to get you back.

Oh my goodness.

Well, well, well, who's looking crazy now?

We going out?

What are we gonna do?

What are we gonna do? What are we gonna do?

Mom, can I have your hand?

Yes.

Can I have your hand?

Yes.

Mom and dad, hold hands.

Okay.

Hi, God, it's me, Joy.

This time I have my mom and dad praying with me today.

Thank you for making me a part of their family

and for making our home happy again.

We love you so much.

In Jesus' name.

Amen.

- All right, let's go. - I'm hungry, let's go eat.

All right, come on.

Hi, God, it's me, Joy.

Guess what?

Sarah and Annie don't tease me anymore

and Mommy's heart is much nicer now,

and I'm not scared of the neighbor's dog next door.