Often, life circumstances create difficult decisions. For me, a tough choice was part of our adoption story.
This Isn’t Logical!
When my wife and I were 47 we adopted a 2-year old.
Yes, a big age gap!
I was the oldest dad on the baseball field for youth baseball.
Actually, I thought the idea of adoption was unrealistic. How so?
Well, our age as parents, much closer to being grandparents, was certainly a factor.
In addition, we had two married children and one in high school at the time.
Thus, we were within a year or two of having an empty nest.
Head vs Heart
Despite my concerns about the age gap, I was outvoted by my wife and daughters!
Now, what are some things I learned through this experience?
First, never be friends with people who are foster parents unless you’re serious about adoption.
Second, know that not all life choices are purely logical.
Third, adoptive parents don’t have “real” children and adopted children. They have children – period. And, all are loved equally.
The Precept
While I was struggling with the adoption decision I came across a scripture verse.
Describing a conversation in heaven. Matthew 25.35 says: “…I was a stranger and you took me in.”
Truly, the verse speaks to showing kindness to someone. Say, by offering a place to stay to a traveler.
But, for me, when I read “took me in” the verse spoke to bringing a foster child (“stranger”) into our family.
In short, that’s our adoption story.
I’m compelled by my best self to grasp what life offers. In fact, I’m most fulfilled when I’m engaged most deeply. proverbsforprofessionals.net
Apply This Today!
People in their mid-40’s need lots of energy when adopting a toddler!
It’s true that adoption is anything but rational. Fact is, some of life’s best choices are not logical, or risk free.
Finally remember, the child you raise becomes a parent who raises your grandchildren!