Headline: "Forget socks, adopt a kaola for Christmas"

Adoption has shaped my life and the lives of my family. Adoption, the voluntary acceptance of a child born to different biological parents as your own, is nothing short of a miracle. I doubt that this can be appreciated if you have not experienced it personally.

Because of the profound impact adoption has had upon me, I find it increasingly offensive when a fund raising program is referred to as "adoption." I know there are many who will say that I am being to sensitive, but I do not think so. Humanitarian organizations World Vision and Compassion do not offer programs where you can "adopt a child," where "adopt" means to send a contribution. However, they do offer opportunities for sponsoring a child. It is a small difference in wording but a huge difference in meaning.

If you are considering the sponsorship of a koala for a Christmas gift, I encourage a change of plans. There are many children who are in desperate need around the world, and a minimal donation can make a tremendous difference in their lives. Please visit the links below to sponsor a child today:

• Love Without Boundaries
  
• World Vision
• Compassion International
• Holt International
• Shaohannah's Hope
• CCAI Charity

Finally, I recommend you read the book Saving Levi: Left to Die...Destined to Live. It is an incredible and inspirational adoption story (they all are).


God bless,
JDD