By: Dan Smith

Dan Smith — Sat, 07 Oct 2023 04:12:08 +0000

Hey there Leslie,
I was doing a google search about adoptees during the holidays and came across your page. I am a adoptee that is a volunteer for the The Adoption Network of Cleveland and facilitate a monthly meeting. Before the holidays we like to talk about the emotions that are had by the whole triad during the holidays, it is our way of trying to preemptively help. I really liked your article, you packed in a whole lot in such a short article. One thing that is missing from all the articles I read was the adoptee who feels like they are a stranger in the home during the holidays, you know you are supposed to be there but for some reason you just want to run. You smile, laugh and try your best to act like you are supposed to all the while hoping no one figures that you are wishing it all to end soon. Here is what no articles has addressed…….we don’t know why we feel this way. Talking with many other adoptees they say the same thing, they feel like strangers invited them into their home and then said “hey we’re going to open presents”. You sit not wanting to be rude but at the same time knowing this is a family function and you probably shouldn’t be there. For many this has followed them right into adulthood. I noticed your webpage was started in 2020 and was hoping your article was a recent one. I was wondering if you either had any thought or if you know of any article or studies that cover this topic from my angle. Thank you in advance for your time.

Comments on: Holidays with an Adopted Child

By: Dan Smith