National Adoption Month: Why This Month Means So Much to Us as Adoptive (and Midlife) Parents
Every November, when National Adoption Month comes around, something deep within me stirs. Maybe it’s the memories that rise to the surface… maybe it’s gratitude… or maybe it’s simply the reminder that God weaves families together in ways we could never orchestrate on our own.
Whatever the reason, this month always makes me pause.
Because adoption isn’t just a legal moment—it’s a lifelong journey of love, surrender, courage, and refinement. And for many of us stepping into midlife or the empty nest years, this month brings up emotions we didn’t expect.
The Quiet Emotions Adoptive Parents Carry Into Midlife
Adoption is beautiful—yes. But let’s not sugarcoat it. Adoption is also complicated, stretching, refining, sanctifying, and sometimes heartbreaking.
The older we get, the more tender certain realities become:
The years feel shorter.
The questions feel heavier.
The desire for connection grows deeper.
And if there’s distance—especially with an adult child or their spouse—it stings in a way words can’t quite touch.
Behind every adoption story are layers of joy, loss, hope, and healing. And if you’ve ever felt unseen or unsure in your journey, hear this clearly:
You’re not alone, and you’re not failing. God sees what others don’t.
What Adoption Taught Us About God’s Heart
When I look back on our adoption story, I see God’s fingerprints—not in the tidy, perfectly scripted way we often imagine, but in the real-life moments where we had no choice but to trust Him.
Adoption taught me that:
Love is given, not earned.
Family is chosen every single day.
Healing takes time—and that’s okay.
God fills the gaps we cannot.
We’re stewards of these children, not owners.
And as our kids grow, leave home, get married, or drift into their own lives, those lessons only deepen.
Some days I look at my children—now grown—and think, Lord, we made it through so much… why does this part still feel hard?
But God reminds me:
The story isn’t finished.
The empty nest isn’t the ending.
And adoption doesn’t stop at eighteen.
Why National Adoption Month Matters in This Season
For midlife and empty-nest parents, this month is more than a recognition—it’s a reflection.
A moment to:
Celebrate the miracle of how your family came to be
Acknowledge the losses and loves woven into the miracle
Pray for your children, no matter their age or distance
Honor the calling God placed on your life
Remember your worth outside of your parenting role
Many parents carry the quiet fear of being left behind. But God sees the ache you rarely speak aloud. He knows the longing you still hold for reconciliation, closeness, and peace.
But here’s the hope:
God is still working in ways you cannot see.
Encouragement for Parents Feeling Distant or Discouraged
Let’s tell the truth: parenting doesn’t stop just because the house falls quiet.
Sometimes the silence makes you feel everything more deeply.
Sometimes it makes you face emotions you pushed aside.
And sometimes it makes you wonder if you still matter.
But hear me:
You are still their parent.
Your love still matters.
Your prayers still carry power.
And God is still in the business of restoration.
Even if your child is distant.
Even if communication is strained.
Even if you’re navigating the complexities of in-laws, blended families, or emotional distance…
God is not done writing the story of redemption into your family.
Simple Ways to Honor National Adoption Month
You don’t need a grand gesture. Just a moment of intention.
1. Pray intentionally over your child—by name and by need
Ask God for peace, clarity, connection, and healing in their life and yours.
2. Reflect on how far God has carried your family
Adoption is a story of grace, and grace deserves remembrance.
3. Share your story with someone who needs hope
Your experience may be the encouragement another parent is praying for.
4. Reconnect with your own purpose
Adoption shaped you, but it isn’t your only identity.
This season matters too.
If your heart is longing for direction or renewal, my free 5-Day Purpose Reset devotional is a gentle place to begin again.
Final Thoughts: This Month Is a Reminder That Your Story Matters
You’re not starting over—you’re starting fresh. And God is still writing purpose, passion, and joy into every chapter of your story.
A reminder that:
· Your sacrifices mattered.
· Your tears were seen.
· Your love left a permanent imprint.
· And your story—messy, beautiful, imperfect—is a testimony of God’s redeeming love.
As you walk through this quieter season of life, may you feel God’s comfort in the places that still ache and His strength in the areas you’ve grown weary.
God is still writing your story. And even if you’re not an adoptive parent but you feel distant from your adult child, remember this truth: God’s not finished with you yet. He is restoring, healing, and moving behind the scenes in ways you may not see today.
Blessings,
Jo
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