Davion Only is a 15 year-old orphan from Florida whose recent plea for recognition garnered sympathy from thousands around the world now intent on adopting the young man. Only was delivered in a prison cell and has no familiarity with his biological family. He wanted to learn more about them over the summer. Unfortunately, while seeking information in a public library, he discovered his mother’s obituary.

But rather than give up hope, the dismayed teenager told his adoption agency of his desire to find a family – any family – that would obligate themselves to his care. Addressing the congregation of St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church in St. Petersburg, Florida, Only declared, “I’ll take anyone, old or young, dad or mom, black, white, purple. I don’t care. And I would be really appreciative. The best I could be.” That moment of appeal has so far delivered nearly 10,000 requests from individuals around the world interested in calling him their own.

He said, “If you can, reach out and get me and love me until I die. I’m praying and still hoping. I know God hasn’t given up and I’m not either. I just want people to know that it’s hard to be a foster kid. People sometimes don’t know how hard it is and how much we try to do good.” Indeed, many don’t know the difficulties experienced by these embattled orphans, but their cry for adoration rings clear. And perhaps the most telling aspect of this young boy is his desire to live his future with the help of a family instead of succumbing to other malicious characterizations that often surround children in need of role models – characterizations often encouraged by agencies such as Planned Parenthood.

The building block of society is the family, and while Davion made his intentions clear, there are many more silent – and unborn – children who undoubtedly feel this same calling. Amid all the callousness of these trying times, let’s never forget these heartwarming stories of love and grace.