The other day I had the opportunity to give a presentation about my vocation as a Pediatric Chaplain. During the obligatory meet and greet, the conversation about children came forth. With joy I proclaimed we were adopting from China in just a few short weeks. While there was much affirmation, one gentleman stood silent. After others departed, he said, "I never know what to say, when I hear about adoption. You see," he continued, "I too am adopted, my parents told me that I was adopted when I was 11 years old, and from then on I was on a quest, to find my mother. I had been told numerous stories about when I was adopted, that ranged from 6 weeks to 6 months of age, and a variety of locations. Many years have passed, but I now know my roots, and there is a completness in my soul." Tears are welling in my eyes as I listened and thanked him for his openness and willingness to share his journey.
While adoption brings an abundance of excitement, joy, and love, we cannot forget that adoption is born out of grief and loss. It takes the ultimate sacrifice to give one's child to another mother. Certainly legal requirements, resource availibity, or the lack of a support system may have all contributed to the decision. But while there is a great deal of "pretty in pink" ahead in our lives, gray and black are not far away.
