The adoption journey (specifically the journey of bringing your child home) will be full of bumps, delays, and uncertainties. So be prepared.
Does that mean adoption isn’t worth it? NO. Jesus persevered through quite a few “bumps” to get us into His family.
Are the bumps fair? NO. But then neither is life in general…at least that’s what we tell our kids.
Does it make sense that there are so many bumps when all you want to do is help a child? NO and yes. For what it’s worth, the adoption process intersects with much bigger issues than a family wanting a child and a child needing a family. Your adoption process does not happen in a vacuum and, thus, cannot be treated that way.
Does the process need reform? YES, but the process will never be perfect or bump-free.
The bigger question is How will you deal with the bumps?
A lot goes back to your motivations for adopting or fostering.
If you’re primarily motivated by infertility and years of empty arms have already taken their toll, each delay or roadblock will feel completely defeating and possibly make you bitter toward the process.
If you really just want to help a child, you could get angry for the unfairness of it all. Alternatives for helping that don’t assume the U.S. (or your family) knows best may not even cross your mind.
But if you really feel like God is calling you to adoption or foster care, the bumps will still be emotional, frustrating, and disappointing but you’ll be confident that God is faithful and hopefully you’ll be able to keep perspective as you press on toward the goal.
Does that mean you shouldn’t adopt if you suffer from infertility or that adoption doesn’t help a child? NO. It’s a heart issue and perspective is everything.