As parents, it is difficult to ignore. As much as we try to busy ourselves with the details of life, we don’t forget. Somewhere in our consciousness and in our hearts lies this reality – there are children who have been robbed of their birth right. The right of a family. The number of children in orphanages around the world is in the millions – yes millions. In our country, there are over 500,000 children in foster care. Without question, the need exists. Still, the process of adoption seems daunting. Life is complicated enough – why should I take on another cause. Would I be equipped to deal with a child who may be physically or emotionally damaged. Would I have the resources or frankly the love to care for a child who is not of my flesh and blood.

These are common concerns raised by parents who understand the need but are not sure adoption is right for their family. In truth, adoption is NOT right for many families. It is a life-long commitment that cannot be taking lightly.

I spent over nine years as an executive for the Gladney Center for Adoption. I saw countless couples enter into the adoption process with fear, anxiety, and apprehension. For the families that followed through, I saw, with little exception, joy, happiness, and a peace of mind that comes with following your heart and watching the miracle unfold. Of course, the adoption journey came with challenges and heartache. But, in the end, or rather the beginning, when the child was united with their family, the intensity that accompanied the fear only grew as it was replaced by the power of love.

For those of you who may be on the fence and are wavering about the possibility of adoption – I say, take a step. Talk to other people who have adopted. Get a book on the subject. Research online. There are countless resources available on this subject. The key is taking that step and listening to that still small voice. It may represent the countless children that are putting their hope in you all for the dream of a forever family.

For information or resources, go to:

• www.adoption.com
• www.gladney.org

for adoption questions, write;

• adoption@gladney.org

Adoption Readiness Guide – taken with permission from the Gladney Center for Adoption

Are you ready to begin the adoption process?

We want to support you during your adoption experience. Please take a moment to reflect upon your decision to choose adoption. This worksheet is for your personal use only. These questions are designed to help you, so please feel free to answer them honestly.

1. If infertile, do you feel like you have worked through your issues of infertility?
2. If infertile, do you feel that you are finished with infertility treatments and procedures?
3. If married, do you share the same desire to have children?
4. If married, do you share in your desire to adopt a child?
5. What do you see as the greatest advantage of adopting a child?
6. What concerns/fears do you have about adopting a child?
7. What impressions do you have of women who place their children for adoption?
8. How does your family feel about your desire to adopt a child?
9. How do your friends feel about your desire to adopt a child?
10. Describe your concept of the “ideal” adoption experience.
11. Why do you want to become a parent?