Evie's Desk: National Adoption Month

November is National Adoption Month, and to commemorate I'd like to share a poem written in 1952 that's popular in adoption circles. This piece resonates with many adoptive parents, reflecting how they feel towards their adopted child or children.

The Answer (To an Adopted Child)

Not flesh of my flesh

Nor bone of my bone,

But still miraculously

My own.

Never forget

For a single minute:

You didn't grow under my heart

But in it.

--Fleur Conkling Heyliger

The Advertising Council, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Administration for Children and Families (ACF), and AdoptUsKids recently launched a new series of public service advertisements designed to raise awareness about adoption. Reminding viewers "you don't have to be perfect to be a perfect parent," the campaign encourages adoption. I would like to echo this sentiment. If you are considering adopting or simply want to learn more about the process, go to adoptuskids.com.

Evelyn V. Martinez
Executive Director
First 5 LA

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