Quote:
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Originally Posted by RavenSong
I don't think that what I have to say matters very much, mainly because times have changed; the experiences and reasons behind those experiences belong to those of us who are growing old. We are from another era, one that will soon just be remembered in history books.
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Woah Woah Woah Woah WOAH!!!!!! (and this goes to you too, Janey in reference to your posts and also ties into the 20's...30's poem)
Listen. I'll concede that there is "some" truth to what you're saying...that adoption is evolving from the closed era to the open era, and thus many factors of adoption are changing.
Add to that the increase of international adoption, the increase in avenues to "find" firstparents, children families, etc...plus the explosion of celebs shedding light on adoptions, well...yes. Times are a-changing.
But the complexities don't change. Feelings of hurt, loss, inferiority don't change. The fact that OA is not always accepted hasn't changed.
(and here comes the part where I address the "quote" - haha)
Even though you are not OF the OA era doesn't mean your words aren't of merit. Doesn't mean your experiences are antiquated. In fact, like Janey mentioned SOMEWHERE in the forums (can't remember if it's this thread or not -haha) there are more similarities to OA and reunion than we give credit...
And here's the thing. Isn't it the "way of life" to learn from those who've gone before us? Haven't we all heard a billion stories from our parents, grandparents, great-grandparents that have explained how things were in "their day"? (not saying you're old, people - just trying to make a point)...
Janey's poem is right - young people don't always "WANT" to hear the stories. I remember being at my grandparent's houses and hearing all their stories and being semi-interested...Fascinated at their stories of days past, but thinking "What does this have to do with me..." Yeah. Ask me who I consider the two most influential people in my life. And it's not because one could polka like the dickens and the other treated me like I was an angel sent from heaven.
Nope. It's because each and every one of their stories had a significance. Each of their stories had an underlying message that, although vastly different from my own experiences, still had the similarities and depth that resonated with me...even to this day.
Don't sell yourself short. Don't think your experiences are invalid. Maybe one day they WILL be a thing for the adoption history books...But until that time (which is further away than I suspect), keep talking ladies.