The Greatest Gift
By Tara E GuttermanHello, Happy New Year! I can't believe it's the start of 2003. ARC was extremely active in 2002, and we continue to have a stellar start to 2003. For almost nine years, I have had the privilege of serving the Philadelphia area as the executive director of one of the finest adoption agencies in Philadelphia. It has been an amazing journey, and I hope to continue this role for many, many years in the future. Adoption ARC was my first "baby".
However, 2002 marked a significant time in my personal life. I became a mother on October 22, 2002. My little Jonah Samuel was born at 5:38PM at Pennsylvania Hospital. He was close to 8 pounds and a little doll - ok, all mothers think that about their children. Jonah is my first child, and after all these years of placing babies, I finally get to keep one for myself. This has been an extraordinary experience in many ways. I have to tell you that the first few days, I could do nothing but cry. After all, how was I to handle this awesome responsibility? Some little guy would depend on ME forever. Now, I know how all of you must feel. One day, you're carefree but feel like there's someone missing from your life; the next day you realize that this little person will be in your life forever, and you feel both scared but also very complete.
Having a child, for me, meant observing traditions and customs as well as creating new family rituals. I think that this is similar in adoption. What do you choose as a name? Why? What cultures and experiences do you honor? Who will be your support?
Jonah was named after two of his grandfathers, Joseph and Samuel. Jonah means "dove" in Hebrew. I fell in love with the name and its significance. We had a bris for him as is the custom in Judaism, and I was thrilled to have family and friends there to welcome him into his new life.
I returned to work about two weeks after my delivery to a busy, bustling office. Each placement had a greater meaning as I saw the parent(s) meet his/her/their new son or daughter. I was even reduced to tears a few times. I also found greater emotion as I witnessed pregnant or postpartum birthmothers placing their babies for adoption. It has always seemed to be a great act of courage - now, I find it nothing less than heroic.
However one becomes a parent, it is an epic experience. No one ever does it alone - whether it's through birth or through adoption. Our children are shared with their grandparents, aunts, uncles, extended family, friends, and sometimes, birthparents. If anyone wants to share any tips with me, I will humbly accept them.
