An Open Letter to my Birthmother at Christmas

Dear Birth Mama,

I think about you a lot during the holiday season, and when I think about you, a deep seated thankfulness wells up within me. Why? Because you sacrificed so much to give me my family.

When I was five years old, I took my first dance lessons. I was so proud of my tiny pink slippers and walked around on my tiptoes everywhere I went. Before my first recital, I was almost too nervous to go on stage. I peeked around the curtain and I saw him. My Dad was in the front row holding flowers and smiling at me. After my performance, I ran into his arms and he twirled me around telling me how proud he was of me.

Because of you, I have a dad who adores me.

When I was in high school I would come home from a long day and my mom would warm up hot chocolate and we would sit on the couch and talk. I told her about the boys I liked and the friend drama I was dealing with, and mom would tell me stories about her high school days. She reminded me of truth and invested deeply in me.

Because of you, I have a mom who is emotionally present for me through the good and the bad.

And as I wrap up in a blanket by the fire on this cold December night, I know that you are out there getting ready for Christmas. I don’t know what your Christmas will look like, but I know that we will not be together. And while that reality may sting in the deepest places of your soul, please hear me say that you did not make a mistake by entrusting me to my mom and dad. You gave me an amazing family and I am forever grateful to you.

My prayer for you this Christmas is that you will know that you are brave and that I love you for giving me the most beautiful life.

Thank you for everything.

Love,

Your Girl

I originally wrote this for Lifeline Children's Services's pregnancy counseling blog. I am SO thankful for them and their commitment to adoption and caring for women facing an unplanned pregnancy.