Hear Me Roar!
National Adoption Month!
Growing up in the foster care system used to make me feel ashamed.
Carrying a garbage bag filled with my clothes from house to house with the hope it would be my last home ruined my self-esteem. I always wanted to shine and be one of the superstars I saw on TV but I felt I wasn't worthy. I felt I needed to be quiet and perfect in order to be adopted. I transferred from school to school and was often an outsider because I couldn't relate to the lives of the other kids. They all had beautiful stories that were rooted in family tradition and love, and I couldn't relate. I felt thrown away.
My mom was young and caught up in the crack epidemic. My dad was a Nigerian immigrant trying to take care of me the best way he could. I've forgiven my dad but not my mother. I don't know my mother and I've never met her. My dream has always been to sit on Oprah's couch and to reunite with my mother.
The events in my life led me to two super incredible people who adopted this imperfect person. My adoptive parents never treated me differently. I never had to be perfect; I made mistakes and pushed them to the limit. I just knew they would send me back after realizing they made a mistake. They never did. They encouraged me, loved beyond anything I thought was possible, and gave me the family life I always wanted as a kid.
I'm the special chosen one, at least that's what my mom says. My extended family is filled with incredible role models! My first family reunion changed my life. I had aunts, uncles, and cousins who welcomed me with open arms. They never mentioned I wasn't blood but made me feel like I was. I'm forever grateful for that.
The perfect sparkly t shirt!
It's all in the details with these perfect pearl booties!
November is national adoption month. Hear me roar! I'm so proud to be a product of adoption. To those who are looking to adopt, thank you! Thank you for opening your heart and mind. You're changing a child's life for the better. For those who are hoping to be adopted, never give up faith. I was adopted as a teenager. Even if you are never adopted, you're worthy, you're loved, and you can be whatever you want to be.
