Writing, Parenting, and Working in the Mess: Authentic Spirituality and Social Justice

On Thursday, our attorney called me to report that S's bio mother had finally signed the open communication document--but with a scribbled-in addition that expressed how angry she was at the "harassment" she's faced and how she wanted her criminal record expunged. Although her note most likely wouldn't stand up in court, I had to respond. I wrote an addendum saying that I agreed with her other additions, but not this one. I noted that she had abused my daughter, and the scars are indelible, permanent--she did not deserve to have her record expunged, and she had not been harassed by anyone. I faxed the addendum to the attorney, then called her to make sure she'd received the fax. "Is this going to delay the adoption again?" I asked our attorney. "Do you want to adopt S?" she asked me. "Yes, more than anything." "Does she wanted to be adopted?" "Yes, more than anything." "Then we'll make it happen,"...

I'm finding a lightness in my center lately, sustained by little blessings, which, once I list them, I'll bet won't feel so little anymore... --I have a poem in my head--not on paper yet, but still. Good considering most of my writing time has been spent tinkering with older projects--nice to have something new. --I got quality time with one of my closest friends last week--a brief visit, but full of long walks and time for her to get to know S. and an awesome dinner party, the likes of which I realized, suddenly, that I've not attended since S. came into my life. --Coming Out Day: woke up exhausted, bitter I had to go to work to do a six-hour training that has nothing to do with the job I'm actually paid to do. But then, the participants reminded me of how lucky I am to live in a place where I feel safe and affirmed and loved most of the time, where people are willing to leave their kids and homework and lives to reflect on how to become better allies. --I spent t...