Legacy of an Adopted Child

Once there were two women who never knew each other.

One you do not remember, the other you call Mother.

Two different lives shaped to make your one.

One became your guiding star; the other became your sun.

The first one gave you life, and the second taught you to live it.

The first gave you a need for love, the second was there to give it.

One gave you a nationality; the other gave you a name.

One gave you a talent; the other gave you an aim.

One gave you emotions; the other calmed your fears.

One saw your first sweet smile, the other dried your tears.

One sought for you a home that she could not provide,

The other prayed for a child – and her hopes were not denied.

And now you ask me through your tears,

The age-old question unanswered through the years:

Heredity or environment – which are you a product of?

Neither my darling.

Just two different kinds of love.

– Author Unknown

Recently, user Mirah shared with us that the last line can also be “Both, my darling, both. They are just different kinds of love.” Truly, the legacy of an adopted child is a beautiful, blended story made up not just of heredity or environment, but love, experience, acceptance, family, and so much more.

Today, with open adoption,the poem “Legacy of an Adopted Child” may not always fit the story. First mothers can be very involved in choosing the adoptive family and thereby choosing the life and opportunities their child may have. Their child not only remembers them, but knows them and knows that they made the choice for adoption out of love.

For children adopted when they were older, they most definitely remember their birth mother, and hopefully continue a healthy relationship with her. The truth of open adoption is that it can take many forms, and benefits every member of the adoption triad – the adoptive parents, the birth family, and most especially the child.

If you have questions about open adoption, we would be honored to answer them. Please feel free to reach out via email or contact us by phone or text.