A Place I Didn't Belong - Hope for Adoptive Moms Offers Validation, Healing
Life is messy. Some adoptions are, too. Through the compelling stories
of adoptive moms who've "been there," you'll learn to be okay—even
when your child is not!
In her new book, A Place I Didn't Belong - Hope for Adoptive Moms (Carpenter's
Son Publishing, 2013), Paula Freeman explores a painful reality of some
adoptions: Things don't always work out as planned. Unmet expectations,
a child's compromised beginnings, and emotional wounds carried into the
process can undermine often-fragile adoptive bonds. Families are turned
upside down as their adopted children lash out with hostility and rage.
Sadly, adoptive mothers often bear
the brunt of their child's behavior. Their once-peaceful homes feel more
like emotional battlefields. They may even begin to question their
decision to adopt in the first place. Overwhelmed by feelings of
inadequacy, misplaced guilt, and shame, they withdraw into self-imposed
isolation and silence. They find themselves in a place they didn't
belong.
"Based on my personal and professional experience with adoption, I
well understand the unique struggles many adoptive families face," says
Freeman. "I wrote this book not only to give voice to their pain, but
to validate their experience, and offer them hope for the future."
With compassion and grace, Paula
Freeman articulates the reality of these shattered adoptive dreams. She
shares poignant stories of mothers who experienced not only the distinct
joys - but the unique challenges - of adoptive parenting. Told through
the lens of introspection and personal growth, their real-life
experiences offer hope, practical coping strategies, and spiritual
renewal for the on-going adoptive journey . . . imperfect though it may
be. "Things can get better," adds Freeman.
About the Author: Paula Freeman, MSW, is founder and executive director of Hope's Promise (www.hopespromise.com),
an adoption and orphan-care ministry headquartered in Colorado. As a
social worker, author, speaker, wife, and mother of seven grown children
- three by adoption - she articulates the heart of adoption with candor
and grace.
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