One of the things I am most thankful for regarding my adoption situation is that I have an open adoption and that my adoption has remained an open adoption. Unfortunately, not all birthmothers are able to have an open adoption, like the birthmothers from years ago. They were not given the option of an open adoption. Most were not given any other options at all besides having their baby, giving him or her to a two parent home, and then “forgetting” him or her and going on with their life. Adoption in today’s society still has a long way to go until it becomes full circle but I am thankful for open adoption and that I am able to participate in an open adoption. Some birthmothers participating in open adoptions have had their adoptions closed and contact between their child and his or her adoptive family cut off, so I’m thankful that thus far my adoption has remained constant and open.

Having an open adoption grants me the opportunity to still be a part of Charlie’s life and still be included in parts of his life, such as birthday celebrations. Open adoption also provides me with the peace of mind that Charlie is healthy, loved, and safe. Because of open adoption, I am able to watch him grow up and am told of milestones. I’m able to celebrate birthdays with him, give him a Christmas present, know what he was for Halloween, blow out birthday candles with him, talk to him on the phone, etc. I am here to answer his questions and am able to provide him with a direct connection to his biological and medical history.

I am not just thankful that I have an open adoption for myself, but I am thankful that we have an open adoption for Charlie’s sake as well.