Everyone thinks they know what adoption is, but the truth is few really understand it. So many misconceptions exist when it comes to birth parents, adoptees, adoptive parents and the adoption process in general. Here is a closer look at what adoption is and what it isnt.
Adoption Is Not:
The same as having a biological child
Something to be taken lightly
A decision that can be undone
Glamorous or picture perfect
For the rich or privileged
A short or simple process
Only for infertile couples
Rare or uncommon
Always openly discussed
For everyone
An easy road
A second choice or a last resort
For the weak or faint of heart
Always happy
The same as it once was
About the parents
An easy decision
Always ethical
Giving a child away
Giving up
Something anyone should be ashamed of
A secret to keep hidden
Adoption Is:
A loving way to build a family
A choice to give a child a better life
Painful and sometimes very sad
A lifelong commitment
Selfless
Unconditional love
Strength
Never giving up
Often a long process
Ever changing and evolving
Sacrifice
Life changing
Permanent
Security
Not always expensive
Another chance
Beautiful
A legal process that can't just be undone
A blessing
Misunderstood
Sometimes controversial
Frustrating
Everywhere
Different for each person
Always about the child
Have you been touched by adoption? What does it mean to you? Please feel free to share your thoughts and feelings. We would love to feature a story in the future with your take on adoption. Whether you're a birth parent, adoptive parent, adoptee, grandparent, relative or even a friend of someone connected to adoption, we want to hear from you! You can send your comments via email to adoption @ bellaonline.com. We appreciate your feedback and look forward to hearing from you soon!