One evening, while I was putting my children to sleep, I noticed our reflection in the mirror and for a brief instant, it hit me: I didn’t have them in my womb. They have been adopted. That idea always catches me off guard, as I rarely consider it. To me, they are just my kids.
Our family isn’t similar to the usual. I am a white mom of three brown color children., we don’t give it a second thought but some people do. We enter shops or eateries and receive looks or double takes. I attempt to think it’s due to their curiosity and appreciation for our family’s beauty.
Last summer, after visiting the beach, we were getting burgers when I saw an elderly man observing us from the other side of the restaurant. I found myself becoming irritated, hoping that we could simply enjoy a peaceful meal like any typical family. He started walking towards us. My heart raced.
He paused by our table, greeted my husband with a handshake, acknowledged me with a nod, and gazed at our children, tears welling in his eyes. You have a lovely family and then he walked away and I stay seated tears running down my face.
Many people claim that “Love is colorblind,” but I disagree. Love doesn’t overlook differences it embraces them. Ours daughter draw us with peach and brown crayons. She chuckles like I do, and my youngest son scrunches his nose just as I do. We share many similarities, yet we also respect what distinguishes each of us.
At home, we discuss our differences candidly. My daughter may say, “Mommy, your green eyes are lovely,” and I’ll respond, “And your brown eyes are stunning as well.” We offer Band-Aids in all skin tones and have books stacked on shelves.
Last summer at the park, our foster son who had recently joined our family was playing when a young boy asked, “Why is your mother white and you are brown?” He stated confidently, “Families don’t have to be the same.” “Family is founded on love.” My heart swelled with pride.
To those observing us, we may not seem like a suitable couple. However, in the areas that are most important, we do. We unite hearts and that’s what creates our family.
