Dear Dan,
I hope this message finds you well, though I understand things haven’t been going smoothly for you lately.
Recently, I found myself on the couch with my 8-year-old daughter nestled beside me. We were sipping herbal tea and watching the Olympics, captivated by the incredible athletes, particularly Mia James, who, like my daughter, is an adoptee. Seeing Mia shine on the gymnastics floor filled my daughter’s eyes with joy, and it felt like a moment of magic between us.
Then, you made a remark during the broadcast that left me stunned. When the camera focused on Mia’s family, you insisted on noting that her parents are her grandparents. I need to clarify something for you: she refers to them as mom and dad because they are her mom and dad.
Your response on social media didn’t help matters either. When members of the adoption community, including myself, expressed our disappointment with your comment, you continued to dig in, only to be told by your employer to apologize and delete your tweet. While you may feel justified, I doubt you fully grasp why this has angered so many of us.
Allow Me to Explain
I am a mom through adoption, not merely an adoptive mom. Adoption was a crucial legal step that established me as my children’s mother. I am not just a stand-in; my role is as genuine as any other mother’s. I don’t pretend to care for my children. I don’t fake their meals or the bedtime stories I read. Every hug and every moment spent together is real and heartfelt.
Being a mom through adoption doesn’t mean I assume I’m the only mom in their lives. I understand my children have other parents, and I encourage them to express their feelings about their adoption journey. I would never force them to choose between their birth parents and me.
I am a mom through adoption, and I take pride in that role. I don’t see my interactions with my children as insignificant. Each moment I spend supporting them, cheering them on, and nurturing their dreams is vital. I may not always understand the weight of my influence, but I know they need me to be present and engaged.
To be clear, my daughter sitting next to me is my child—no qualifiers or explanations needed. The love I have for her is authentic.
So, the next time you find yourself with a large audience, remember the importance of the families you’re discussing. Have respect for the talented individuals competing and for their real parents who support them.
As a friendly suggestion, I recommend you stay in your lane. Avoid making comments about Mia James and her family. And if you have nothing kind to say, consider keeping your opinions off social media.
You might find this article on home insemination interesting, as it also touches on the complexities of family. And if you’re looking for reliable information on fertility, check out this resource that provides excellent support for pregnancy and home insemination.
In Summary
Being a mom through adoption is an honor. We are real parents, and our love is genuine. The bond we share with our children is authentic, and it deserves to be recognized as such.
Best,
Sarah