the one about roots

Roots, we’re born with them, though they might not always seems important to us. I’ve always been drawn to learn all that I can about mine. I love knowing where “I come from”. It’s a big deal in my opinion. I’ve been wondering what the best ways will be to gather this type of information for our child if it is at all possible. I know the best way would be to talk to our child’s first mommie, but realistically I also know that this may not happen, his/her first mommie may not want that contact. We’re new to this thing called adoption, so we don’t know what to completely expect. Obviously for our child’s health and safety we will want to know medical histories, but if it’s possible I’d love to know more than that. I’d love to know my child’s first roots. One day this may arise as a question from our child to us and I want to be able to give as much as I can when this does. I know I may not be able to, but if that’s the case it’s a bridge we’ll cross when we get there.

I found a list of 60+ Ways to Prepare for Adoption. Among this list I found this section:

Honoring Your Child’s Story, Including First Family and Past Connections
20. Make a plan for honoring your child’s past. (Where can important photos be placed? How can the first family be honored, thanked, prayed for within your family rituals? Will you make a lifebook?)
21. Read Before You Were Mine: Discovering Your Adopted Child’s Lifestory by Susan TeBos and Carissa Woodwyk
22. View (and discuss) Closure.
23.Watch (and discuss) “Listen” by Carissa Woodwyk (an adoptee).

I’m writing this post not only as a reminder for myself, but to share with anyone else going through adoption that may be interested!