It's about Love

A recent statistic came out in the New York Times, 50% of children born in the United States are born to unwed mothers.  When I saw this I thought, “50%? No way, that number is way too high.”  But I have recently found myself close to many young women who are carrying children apart of this 50%.  My heart aches f0r you as I have seen your difficulty and sadness.  I cannot imagine having to make those difficult decisions: to marry this man, to place my baby for adoption or to start down the long, and hard road ahead of being a single mother?  

A few months ago I was discussing a situation with my dad regarding a friend, unwed and my age that had decided to keep her baby.  I put myself in her shoes, and told my dad that if I was her I probably wouldn’t place my baby for adoption either.  At age 20, I could totally handle taking care of a baby.  His simple response was this, “It’s not about you, but about what is best for the baby.” 

After I thought about it, I was able to see his point.  How could I financially provide, go to school and take care of my baby?  I know that I simply couldn’t do it.  It would be physically hard and most of all emotionally draining.  I know that I would be exhausted and unable to give my baby the attention needed.  However, the reverse situation would be giving my baby a family that can do everything I couldn’t – with a mom and a dad to provide, love and raise the child as their own. 

Over the past three years I have watched two friends in this challenging situation at the same time.  Each girl chose differently – one, to keep her baby and the other adoption.  The girl that kept her baby has struggled for these years; her relationship with the father ended, she had to quit school to work her minimum wage job, and dating has become more complicated than ever.  The other, heartbroken after the adoption but moved on and started life again in school.  A few short months later she found her sweetheart and was a year later married in the temple.  I believe that Heavenly Father truly blessed her for her decision. 

Adoption: The decision is difficult but it is worth it. 

**Posted below are 2 links to my cute aunt and uncle who are looking to adopt.  I cannot say enough good things about them.  They are amazing parents.  I would recommend them to anyone.

https://itsaboutlove.org/ial/profiles/27005869/ourMessage.jsf

http://emandruss.blogspot.com/