I have been going through our family pictures as I work on a project for Angie's adoption. Family pictures call up a spectrum of emotions as the times and places of the past are revisited. Our pictures revive memories of our boys' adoptions and their entries into our lives as infants, Josh at five months old and Levi as a newborn. We have a ton of pictures and image after image tells the story. Our boys, and Angie after them, were immediately loved and accepted by our family and friends. They gained more than just parents when they entered our home, they gained a village.
The images I love most are those that bring to life the pure joy of our biological children upon meeting and getting to know their new siblings. With each addition there was new little person to love and they rose to the occasion without exception. Playing in the snow, hunting for Easter eggs, opening Christmas gifts, graduations, vacations in the sun and teaching them what it means to be a Harris. Our children have been permanently changed by the experience of adoption and I think they would say the adoptions have had a positive impact. I don't mean to gloss over the challenges. There have been difficulties and disappointments to be sure. Adoption is not for the faint of heart, but it is worth every challenge, struggle, and uncertainty.
Angie's adoption process has been far different than our first two adoptions. Who is to say when it truly began? When she entered our home and hearts as a newborn? When we became a permanent foster placement for her? When we asked to adopt her the first time? The second? Or third? Or when she stated she did not want to be in foster care anymore? Our commitment to her has been real and unwavering all along and only God knew how her future would play out.
The stark difference in Angie's adoption is that she understands exactly what it means to be adopted. Eighteen months ago, while driving in the car, Angie told me, "Mom, I don't want to be a foster kid anymore", and I knew that we had to prevail in our quest to adopt her. I would ask again. I did, and here we are. Angie has shared our frustration at what seems to be an endless process. She has advocated to change her name and she has shared her excitement to become Angela Hope Harris. Our girl, in true form, has taken charge of this matter and has let us know she will not be defeated by difficult circumstances.
This is what adoption means......finding the people you belong with and making them yours. Gaining a village of people who make you feel special. Having siblings to share the journey with and to cheer you on. And, knowing exactly who you are and what you want. The legal ceremony is just the ritual that marks the end of the process.
We are beyond excited for Angie's adoption and we hope you will join us on our special day.
