Adoptee Consciousness Model
For the last day of adoption awareness month I want to talk about the adoptee consciousness model - specifically the fog.
within the adoptive community ‘the fog’ is in reference to one’s state before an interest in the adoption journey. Often being in the fog is someone who follows the topical adoption narrative without question or not being interested in knowing more of their own story.
I have come to recognize that adoption is a multilayered phenomenon and a prominent layer is that of loss. While adoptees gain a family and a different life they loose a lot, too.
I find myself thinking about the stories I will likely never have with my birth family that are often taken for granted. The stories that are shared around the dinner table time and time again. The simple facts of when your first birthday where the cake became your favorite toy to throw. Or growing up loving and fighting with siblings. As an only child this would be another life in itself covered with the irony that I likely do have siblings somewhere in the world.
This year I have truly come out of the fog, a true 180. I have learned more about Chinese culture and the country policies surrounding my birth. I have also learned more about myself and my personal story. Along the journey I have interacted with fascinating people and have experienced every emotion imaginable. From a Chinese baby to today I am on a journey of a lifetime.
Make it stand out
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
If you want to know more about the adoptee continuousness model here is a study I appreciate.
https://www.researchgate.net/.../362643073_Out_of_the_Fog...
I am speaking from my own life experiences and opinions as a transracial adoptee. Please recognise everyone is entitled to their own views and may have different experiences.
