I just learned about a new group on Facebook called “It’s none of your business why we didn’t ‘just’ adopt from here.” 

While the group’s name might be seen as a little strident, I understand the sentiment. How many times have my husband and I been asked why we “didn’t just adopt from the United States?” So many that I’ve lost count. I’m not alone in this. Every adoptive parent I know who has adopted internationally has faced the same question. 

When we first started the adoption process with Olivia, I never dreamed I would one day be quoting Brad Pitt. But a few years ago I read an interview with him, and (predictably), he was asked “Why did you adopt from another country? There are so many children here who need homes.” Brad Pitt’s response rang so true that I remember it still: “Our children find us, wherever they are.” 

Exactly.

There is no one who believes in adoption more than I do. Without exaggeration, I can say that adoption is the greatest, most transforming experience of my life. The method by which people create families is an intensely personal choice. For my husband and me, that method was adoption from Guatemala. To become a parent is extraordinary, no matter how it happens. To paraphrase Mr. Pitt, children are miracles, wherever they come from.

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Tags: adoption choice, Brad Pitt, Facebook, Guatemalan adoption, international adoption

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