A Coming Home Day Reflection
I was adopted 23 years ago today, on June 20th, 2003. My parents and I celebrate my Coming Home Day every year, but this year looks a little different.
My name is Charlotte Schramm. I was born on May 23rd, 2003, and adopted by the most wonderful parents 23 years ago today, on June 20th, 2003. We celebrate this day every year, as my Coming Home Day was the best thing that’s happened to the three of us.
The meaning of the word “adoption” has evolved over the course of my life. As a child, I knew I was adopted, but didn’t fully understand what that entailed. I didn’t know my birth mother at that time; I only knew her name and would tell people what my parents told me- she loved me so much that she gave me up so I could have a better life. The meaning changed when I was in my teens and was struggling with self-acceptance and not feeling good enough. I still believed what my parents had told me, but there was (and is) a subconscious wound that never fully healed. When I met my birth mother 4 years ago, she told me I was a missing piece of a puzzle for another family, and that is what I currently hold above all else. That’s not to say I don’t still think about these other things, but I try to make a conscious effort to change my viewpoint.
I want to use this day to practice mindfulness. I quite often find myself rushing through my day-to-day life- I usually count down the days until something I’ve eagerly waited for comes along, then reset the clock in anticipation for the next event. I notice that the more I focus on the future, the quicker the present goes by. That has been the case leading up to today, but I am going to slow down. This is the first year where I haven’t lived at home, so I have been excited for my parents to come visit. Our celebration may look different this year, but that doesn't change the meaning behind it. We will still celebrate and be full of love, and I will stay present so I can stay grateful.
Today is so important to me, and I am so thankful to be adopted by such wonderful parents. My mom and dad are kind, selfless, and are my best friends, and I wouldn’t be the person I am today without them. I love being adopted, and I love my parents. I am so lucky!
Charlotte Schramm
Charlotte was adopted as an infant and has spent much of her life exploring the questions, emotions, and experiences that can come with adoption. With the support of her family, she later connected with her birth mother, gaining a deeper understanding of her story and identity. Through her writing, Charlotte shares personal reflections on adoption, belonging, family, and self-discovery, hoping her experiences may resonate with and support others on similar journeys.
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