[l-thompson]

I grew up with an older brother (also adopted) and a younger sister (my mother was very surprised to become pregnant at the age of 40...a lovely surprise too!!)

My brother and I were told from a young age that we were adopted but other than that it was not talked about at all. Whenever I attempted a conversation about adoption it became clear very quickly that my parents just weren't comfortable talking about it. I accepted that and it almost became a "taboo" subject in our family. I was a sixties baby though and given the climate of society back then, I believe my parents thought that if they were good parents I would never have any questions regarding my birthparents or adoption....I understand. I do wish I had been able to discuss adoption with them and even discuss my desire to search.

Reading your post, I sense how important this is to you - to embrace your culture and to learn as much as you can. I also understand the feeling of not wanting to hurt your parents - family loyalty does runs deep.
Do you still live at home with your parents? I wonder if you just slowly introduced your parents to things you are learning about your culture......if they see how important this is to you, their reluctance to talk about things may lessen. From what I have read on the forums, your parents are probably fearful that they may loose you...reassure them, try to get them involved as well...when they realise that you want to share this with them and make them part of it, any fears they have may subside.

It would be nice to think you have their full support and that you can to talk to them about your thoughts and feelings regarding your roots so I would encourage you to try. If they are still holding back I would go for it anyway - too often we put things off in our lives for fear of hurting/disappointing others. I know I will always have regrets holding off my search as long as I did.

Take Care and best of luck to you.