In 2010, I knew very little about what we were embarking on as we entered into the world of adoption. What I DID know is that I was ready and excited to travel a new road. Years of unsuccessful fertility treatments had left me feeling drained emotionally and physically. My heart was broken, my body bruised and sore, and my soul felt like it had endured all it could take. Thank goodness that I know and believe with ALL my heart that things DO NOT happen by accident and that God had led us here. If not for that, I would’ve given up then and there, and sadly would have missed out on the incredible world of adoption and all that it brings.
Do you feel the ‘pull’ towards adoption? Some know from the very beginning they will adopt. Others are led to it through life situations and circumstances. It really doesn’t matter how you get there, if you feel your heart leading you, jump on board and get ready for the ride. Some days will be easy, some hard. The process will change you, THAT, I know for sure. Here are a few things to know when considering adoption:
- Adoption costs can be such an issue in the beginning for so many. You wonder how in the world will you ever come up with it all? It stops some from ever even starting the process. Don’t let it. You make sacrifices. You cut back here-and-there. You make it happen.
- Adoption is not an easy road. You get knocked down. Multiple times. There are ups and downs, twists and turns unlike anything you could’ve imagined. You find out that you are stronger than you ever knew yourself to be. Keep your heart and mind focused. The child meant for you is coming.
- Adoption GAIN does not come without LOSS. A birth family is losing so much at the very same time that an adoptive family is gaining the world. Always remember. Never forget. Pray often.
- Adoption is a blessing SO great, it’s almost incomprehensible. Such a precious, priceless gift. YOU become the lucky one.
- ADOPTION. IS. WORTH. IT.
My heart is FULL, and I’m a mama blessed through ADOPTION…
Loved this post, Misty. You and your story is so inspiring. Number 4 really resonated with me, because I never really thought of it that way. But you’re right – adoption really is a loss and again.
It really is, Meg…the report I got about our birth mom’s “signing” day makes me cry EVERY SINGLE TIME i think of it and her. I’m so thankful that she chose us when she felt she couldn’t give him what he needed. I don’t know her(by her choice), but I love her.
Love this post and your sweet family. I will never ever forget our first day in Bible Study. You and Chuck shared a prayer request about your struggles with infertility and failed adoption. Chuck got choked up as he shared his heartache of watching his wife long for a child.{I ugly cried in front of total strangers}. Your marriage and your family just resonate love to me. You remained faithful and clung to God’s promises and being able to watch His plan for your family has been such a blessing to watch.
Michelle…xoxoxoxoxoxo!!!
You inspire me so much Misty! Your faith is such a beautiful gift and I am grateful for all that you share.
I know I said it before but I just love your family’s story!
You are amazing! That is all there is to it, Misty!!!
I just want to add that if cost is a deterrent…consider adoption through CPS. The legal fees are covered! In addition if you adopt older children, they often are eligible for a stipend, free medicaid, and free tuition (at a texas public university) up to the doctorate level!! I just adopted siblings ages 5 and 11 and I am so glad I did. They are so precious.
Similar to what Stephanie said – private adoption can be really costly but to adopt from CPS/state custody is almost free. You can also opt for young children or older children. I’m just adding that because I had no idea until I started looking into adoption, and I wonder if more people knew that there’s an alternate route that’s more affordable if they would be open to it.