The adoption process is long and draining for all of the people involved. There are many court dates, visits from the social workers for the state and the agency, and visits from all of the extra people who coordinate the lives and services provided for the children. During this long process the kids become acquainted with their new family and lifestyle. They become part of the family before they are legally part of it.
It takes months for the court to finally take full custody away from the biological parents and give rights to the foster parents. Sometimes, the case workers lose track of the biological parents whereabouts and are forced to wait for weeks on end until a form can be signed. The court dates are scheduled, postponed, and rescheduled countless times.
My family has been going through the foster to adopt process for a little over a year. Before one of the court hearings, my sister exclaimed to my parents, ” I can’t wait to see my court friends!”. I believe this anecdote portrays a good picture of how many times my siblings had to go to court during this process.
There are times when one can’t help but wonder if it is worth it. It is emotionally draining to watch children lose their biological families, even though they become a part of a family that can take care of them so much better. God gives us strength when he knows we need it most. He helps and encourages anyone who listens to his commands. The adoption process may be lengthy and sad, but God has a plan.
Foster to Family 
My parents went through something similar, although they adopted me and my brother from overseas rather than the foster care system. They were originally told that they would not be chosen as adoptive parents because they are a bi-racial couple, which apparently is an issue? But I appreciate your comment that God always has a plan—it’s a good reminder to not lose hope and that the wait is definitely worth it.
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Alyssa, I find your topic very interesting. I have three younger siblings who were all adopted. They were not adopted through the American foster system, but were adopted from overseas. Your post makes me reflect on how my family didn’t have to go to court as much, and overall the process seems to have gone smoother than what you describe, and how I am grateful for that. I think your point of how God has a plan is a very good one. Overall, just accepting and believing that God’s plan is being worked out can help those involved deal with all the changes and new experiences. As my mom has always said, she believes she has the four kids that God wanted her to have!
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I think the adoption system as a whole needs some fixing. There are many families out there who are well deserving of a family, but are restricted from having one for irrational reasons. My parents have friends that waited over 15 years for news of their adoption, There needs to be more focus on ways to make the program more effective and efficient.
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I am really enjoying your blog as I continue to read. Thank you for being willing to share your personal experiences and give light to a system that so many people aren’t aware of or ignore.
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