Four years ago, on Friday the 13th, my little Anna was born. I wish that I had a fun home birth story to tell about her birth, but I wasn't there. On Friday the 13th 2009 I was somewhere else, completely unaware that my 2nd daughter was coming into the world. I don't have any pictures of her birth or even her sweet little newborn face. Another woman had the privilege of carrying and delivering my sweet girl. And while I have been so blessed by adoption, I am most aware of the pain and sorrow of it on days like today. While I mourn that this little girl did not come from my womb, I have had the joy of celebrating every birthday since that very first one. But the woman that gave birth to her, while she got to be there for that first precious breath, has not seen a birthday since. I always think of her on my girls' birthdays and Mother's Day. I wonder if she remembers what today is. I mean, who could forget the day you gave birth? I know I couldn't. I do not judge her. I'm not angry with her. I grieve for her. For I can only imagine the pain that days like this must bring to her. I pray for her on days like today. I pray that she will know the joy that comes from the freedom that Christ offers. That she will accept His free gift of grace and be healed from her past hurts. I know she has many. Though I've never met this woman, I love her so much. She gave me two very precious gifts. Sometimes I wish I could call her up and tell her thank you. Not that that would bring any comfort to her. It's a selfish wish, really. I just wish she could see how happy her little girl is and how much joy she brings to people around her. I am reminded today that while adoption is a beautiful thing, it is beauty that God has made out of ashes. The fact that there are orphans in the world that need to be adopted is another product of the fall of man. I am so very thankful that our Father is making all things new.
