We took in a quiet boy. A whole year later, when he spoke his first words, it completely changed everything. He said, “THEY LIED…”
When we adopted Bobby, a five-year-old who hardly ever said a word, we thought that with time and love, his pain would heal. But on his sixth birthday, he said five words that shattered our lives. He said, “My parents are alive.” What happened next showed us truths we never expected.
I always believed that becoming a mother would be easy and natural. But life had different plans.
When Bobby said those words, it wasn’t just his first sentence. It was the start of a journey that would test our love, our patience, and everything we thought we knew about family.
I used to think life was perfect. I had a loving husband, a nice home, and a job that let me do the things I loved.
But there was something missing. I felt it in those quiet moments and every time I looked at the empty second bedroom.
I wanted a child.
When Jacob and I decided to start trying, I was so full of hope. I pictured late-night feedings, making a mess with art projects, and watching our little one grow.
But months turned into years, and that picture never became a reality.
We tried everything from medical treatments to seeing the best doctors in town. Each time, we got the same answer: “I’m sorry.”
The day it all fell apart is still fresh in my mind.
We had just left another fertility clinic. The doctor’s words kept repeating in my head.
“There’s nothing more we can do,” he said. “Adoption might be the best choice for you.”
I held it together until we got home. As soon as I walked into the living room, I collapsed on the sofa and started crying uncontrollably.
Jacob came over to me.
“Alicia, what happened?” he asked. “Please talk to me.”
I shook my head and could barely get the words out. “I just… I don’t understand. Why is this happening to us? All I’ve ever wanted is to be a mom, and now it seems like it’ll never happen.”
“It’s not fair. I know,” he said as he sat beside me and put his arm around me. “But maybe there’s another way. Maybe we don’t have to give up.”
“You mean adoption?” My voice broke as I looked at him. “Do you really think it’ll be the same? I’m not sure if I can love a child that isn’t mine.”
Jacob took my face in his hands and looked into my eyes.
“Alicia, you have more love in you than anyone I know. It’s not about biology. It’s about love. And you… you’re a mom in every way that matters.”
His words stayed with me for the next few days. Every time I had doubts, I would replay our conversation in my mind.
