What I Have Learned

Our adoption experiences have been life-changing in countless ways already, and all of this before we even have new kids in our home.  I've been asked by several folks, "What have you learned about yourself," and "How has this changed you?"  The number of new people in our lives from the personal level all the way to federal officials has been mind-boggling, and the process incredibly complex.  With the wait becoming increasingly difficult to bear, I've decided to begin trying to digest what's come into our lives since January 12th.  I'll put myself out there with one caveat, take my reflections at face value.  This work-in-progress is comprised of generalized thoughts stemming from a collection of observations over months of time  .  .  . 

What I Have Learned (or at least reaffirmed):

• You can love desperately children living far, far from your home.
• When there is trauma, there is not room for pride.
• But integrity still matters.
• People you barely know can look you in the eye and "get it."
• A few friends might not.
• Your soul can survive more than you can imagine.
• Sincerity is obvious.
• A person's depth of knowledge isn't always.
• The truth really is complex.
• Being comfortable with vulnerability is a strength.
• Humor helps.
• Just because lines become blurred doesn't mean you should cross them.
• No matter what your network, at the end of the day, the buck stops in your own house.

To be continued  .  .  .