Bigfork Eagle Editorial Creating life

Having a child does not necessarily mean giving birth to one. There are countless numbers of children across the globe longing for loving parents. There are between 100 and 200 million orphans throughout the world. Many dream of stability and safety. They hope for affection and care. They are waiting for their lives to begin. Others have nothing to base such dreams on, for they have never known

Never underestimate the understanding of a child. They know things that innocence reveals, and that we adults long to remember. That innocence is fragile. Things like poverty, violence, and abuse strip that essence from the young. But we can give it back.

Adoption is crucial in these troubled times. We in the United States are privileged, for even the poor among us typically has food and shelter. Our orphaned children can get the care they so desperately need. Even with our flawed foster care system, our children have a chance at life. Children in third-world countries often do not.

Raising a child is no small task. Raising a child that is not your own may seem even more daunting to some. But every child deserves a family. The people at Lifeline of Hope understand this, and are working so very hard to unite orphans with loving parents. It is unique to see a local, grass-roots organization take on such an enormous task.

Unfortunately, to other less noble organizations adoption has become a business. Children are sold like goods at a market. Whole economic networks are built on the backs of these children, and parents desperate for a baby will go to any length or cost to bring their son or daughter home.

For couples or individuals thinking about becoming adoptive parents, do your research. Whether domestic or international, adoption must not be a quick fix to infertility. Adoption is an amazing way to create life. It is a chance for a child to reclaim innocence, and have a family to love.