The adoption triad is the universal symbol of adoption. The three integral parts of an adoption are represented by each side of the triangle…the child, the parents and the birth family. A heart intertwines all three sides signifying the immense love rooted at the core of all adoptions, because adoption begins with love. It's a beautiful symbol, and adoption is beautiful. But the process of adopting is complicated and often times traumatic, so within that beauty, one must also acknowledge the brokenness.
When you choose to adopt, you are making the decision to expand your definition of family. Unique to your circumstance is the connection you will eventually develop with your birth family. You cannot foresee what that will be. But whether or not you have an open relationship, your child will grow, and want to learn and know everything about them. Therefore, you must first and foremost accept that they will always be an integral part of your life, because you and your child are forever linked to them.
*EDIT 31 Dec 2021 You may see new expanded language from triad to constellation to be more inclusive of all the extended family layers that adoption can bring.
♥️ Stephanie
“Adoption has the dimension of connection — not only to your own tribe, but beyond, widening the scope of what constitutes love, ties and family. It is a larger embrace. By adopting, we stretch past our immediate circles and, by reaching out, find an unexpected sense of belonging with others.”
- Isabella Rossellini