[Archive]

Originally Posted By Susan

I don't know if what I can offer will help but I will try. I placed my daughter for adoption almost 22 years ago and she is just now trying to contact me. The best and first thing that you can do is realize that you made a wonderful decision. She/He is now in the hands of loving parents who have waited a long time to hold this child. In the letter that my daughter wrote to me she stated that she knows and wanted me to know that I gave her a chance to grow up in a happy and Christian family. She has graduated college in 3-1/2 years.
When I signed those papaers I felt the same as you do now. I was not allowed to discuss or even mention the fact that I had a child. The one thing that helped me the most is that I did talk about her, thought about her, wrote about her and always prayed for her safety. I kept silent around my family because that is the way they wanted it. They are in for a rude awakening when I walk in and introduce their 'NEW' family member. Brettne has always been apart of my life and I have celebrated and mourned her birthday for 21 years. Never forget your child in your life but don't make it the center of your life. You need to take baby steps out into the world. Find a close friend you can share your experience with and who will listen when you need a friend. I have gone through 21 years of wondering if she was ok and now I know she was. Let me know if you need to talk and I will try and help.