An excerpt from PHOENIX BOUND, ‘A Hurting Heart,’ by Angie K Elliston
James and I each said, “Sure, why not.” As we told people of our decision, everyone told us not to do it. They insisted that a sixteen-year-old would be set-in-his-ways and be impossible to change or mold into our family. Friends and relatives strongly advised us not to take him into our family. Regardless of the warnings, we did not hesitate or doubt our decision.
My husband and I were prepared to take on another child at this point and had met this boy before getting the phone call to adopt him. We were prepared to handle it.
It is dangerous to adopt as a result of a loss.
Many couples adopt after years of trying to conceive or want a playmate for their only child. However, be sure that you have worked out your loss before taking on a child. A child’s needs are extensive, and your heart needs to be ready to take on that challenge. An adoptive child has had at least one loss if not multiple losses and he needs you to be there for him. If he does not get along with your other child or if he does not ‘measure up’ to what you expected, it is your heart that needs to be flexible and loving.
Research before you choose to adopt and listen to your heart.
An adoptive placement will often turn your life upside down, but it is a calling that has its rewards. It is also one way to create the change you would like to see in the world.
James and I each said, “Sure, why not.” As we told people of our decision, everyone told us not to do it. They insisted that a sixteen-year-old would be set-in-his-ways and be impossible to change or mold into our family. Friends and relatives strongly advised us not to take him into our family. Regardless of the warnings, we did not hesitate or doubt our decision.
My husband and I were prepared to take on another child at this point and had met this boy before getting the phone call to adopt him. We were prepared to handle it.
It is dangerous to adopt as a result of a loss.
Many couples adopt after years of trying to conceive or want a playmate for their only child. However, be sure that you have worked out your loss before taking on a child. A child’s needs are extensive, and your heart needs to be ready to take on that challenge. An adoptive child has had at least one loss if not multiple losses and he needs you to be there for him. If he does not get along with your other child or if he does not ‘measure up’ to what you expected, it is your heart that needs to be flexible and loving.
Research before you choose to adopt and listen to your heart.
An adoptive placement will often turn your life upside down, but it is a calling that has its rewards. It is also one way to create the change you would like to see in the world.