I REJOICE IN HAVING THE LOVE OF TWO FAMILIES

My personal story of adoption isn’t overly exciting, but to me, my personal journey has been both fulfilling and fun. Adopted at the tender age of 4 weeks, my life took a magical turn, when I was adopted by an incredible mother and father who weren’t able to conceive a child themselves. The uniqueness of my journey, typical of all adopted kids, was marked by the distinctive landscape of the 1970s, when most adoptions were closed, meaning that the birth parents and the adopting parents had no knowledge of each other and the adoption files were sealed. Any communication between the two parties was pretty much impossible until the child reached the age of 18 and could request that the files be reopened.

The understanding of my adoption came during my early years, around first or second grade, as my parents explained that I was special because I was “chosen.” At that innocent age, the concept felt like pure magic — I was handpicked to be part of a family that loved me deeply. Looking back, my life was nothing short of amazing, surrounded by the unwavering love of my adoptive parents. I realize how truly blessed I was and still am today.

Around a decade ago, my journey took an unexpected twist when I stumbled upon an episode of “Dateline” featuring adopted individuals seeking their birth parents. Intrigued, I followed their lead to a website where I entered my information to see if anyone was searching for me. A year later, a breakthrough occurred when my half-sister reached out to me via email. It turns out that she had been searching for me unsuccessfully for years. Together, we navigated the lengthy process, filling out forms and submitting information so the adoption agency would release my file. After a few weeks of updating information, signing documents and sending paperwork through the mail, I suddenly found myself on the phone with my birth mom, half-sister and maternal grandmother.

Constant email exchanges with my sister paved the way for a pivotal moment — an excursion to her home in Oregon, where stories were swapped and new family bonds were solidified.

Shannon Lynard

The trip was nothing short of a revelation, uncovering shared similarities and building connections that resonate to this day. Despite the passing of my birth grandmother and the complexities of my birth father’s life, marred by the Vietnam War, I cherish the moments we shared and am so grateful to have had the connections that I did.

From the earliest chapters of my life, my adoptive parents instilled in me the profound understanding that love knows no bounds. It was an acceptance that transcended societal norms, a message that resonated deeply as I discovered and embraced my identity. As I came to terms with my place in the LGBTQIA+ community, I found solace in the warmth of my family’s embrace. This acceptance was not just a reflection of unconditional love, but a testament to the belief that family is bound by love and understanding, not solely by blood.

To my joy, I discovered that the acceptance I experienced within my family echoed in the hearts of the members of my birth family as well. Their understanding and support transcended the complexities of our shared history, creating a space where my identity as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community was met with open arms.

For me, the tale of adoption is a poignant one — a narrative woven with threads of love, acceptance and discovery. Adopted into a nurturing home and surrounded by incredible people, I’m so grateful for the two remarkable individuals who raised me. Yet my story extends beyond the confines of my adoptive family, encompassing the profound relationships I’ve cultivated with my sister and birth mom.

As life unfolds, I find solace in the fact that my adoption story is one of wonder and warmth. Blessed with the love of two families, I empathize deeply with kids and youth in foster care yearning for their forever families. My journey, shaped by the transformative power of adoption, is a testament to the resilience and beauty that can emerge when love knows no boundaries.

In this new chapter of my professional and personal journey, I look forward to growing with Walden Family Services and I am a passionate advocate for the wellbeing and happiness of every child and family we touch. Together, we can continue to build a world where every child, regardless of their journey, gender or background, finds the love and care they deserve.

SHANNON LYNARD