Hey everyone! I’m excited to write about a topic near to my heart–adoption. Most of you know I was adopted at two weeks old by my wonderful family from an organization called Kansas Children’s Service League. I have still never met my birth parents, but I am so grateful to them (especially my birth mom!) for the decision to let me be adopted. It’s probably the best thing that has ever happened to me. Record deals, marriage, and now the birth of my sons are some of the incredible milestones in my life, but none of it would have been possible if not for a brave decision one young woman made years ago. I owe her everything.
That’s one of the most important things I can share with you about adoption…I want to honor moms who choose adoption for their children. It’s probably one of the hardest things a person could ever do. After watching my wife go through pregnancy and labor and delivery (twice), I can’t imagine how hard that ultimate decision must be for a mother. In my music and with my words I want to wholeheartedly encourage birth moms who are considering adoption or who have taken that hard road already. You may wonder all the time if you’ve done the right thing, but by giving your child a chance at life you’ve given them a wonderful gift!
If you are considering the path of adoption, let me encourge you! My wife and I are on this difficult journey now. We knew early on in our marriage, because of what adoption has meant to me, that we wanted to adopt a child of our own. We have two boys (biological kids), and we are waiting for an international adoption of a little girl to be finalized. The process of waiting has taught us so much, but it’s not easy. Also, there are financial hurdles in adoption that make it extra challenging. I’m thankful for the many many organizations out there who offer financial assistance to families whose hearts and homes are ready for adoption.
Finally, the last part of this equation that is always on my heart: the orphans. The millions of kids around the world who are waiting to be adopted but might never have a family of their own. My heart aches for these children. It’s the reason I’m passionate about adoption…because I wish they could all have great homes right now. It’s also the reason I’m passionate for their cause. In 2011 my wife and I started to raise money for deserving orphanages and agencies around the world who are championing orphans. If they can’t all be adopted at least we can help them get a great education and regular medical care. For more information, you can check out Remember Me Mission on Facebook or at msrememberme.org.
So, even if you don’t have a personal interest in adoption, there are so many ways you can be involved. Giving your time or gifts to crisis pregnancy centers (where moms get support for adoption), supporting and encouraging families who are in the process of adoption, and finally,championing the cause of the orphan are just a few. And, if you’ve been adopted, I hope you’ll share your story with others, even the hard parts, and use it for good toward the kingdom of heaven.
Adoption is powerful! We can all play a part in changing the lives of children. I pray alongside you that God woud speak boldly in your heart to reveal your role. It may just be the most valuable decision you make!
Blessings,
Mark
