THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1997, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Saturday, January 4, 1997 TAG: 9701040005
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A10 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: 32 lines
While reading the Dec. 24 paper, I noticed the article concerning Joni Mitchell and her quest to find the child she gave up for adoption in 1965. Thirty-one years ago, did Ms. Mitchell have foresight and compassion, or was her act one of selfishness? Was Ms. Mitchell's concern that she was not properly equipped to take care of her child, or did she think that it would negatively impact her career? Either way, I put forth she made the correct decision.
As a child who was adopted at the age of 2 months in 1964, it amazes me every time I hear or read about a biological mother who wants to be reunited with the child she gave up for adoption.
When I was less than 18, it would have broken my parents' hearts if a court had ordered them to give me to my biological mother. It would have been a hollow victory, because the joy my parents received from parenting was teaching me how to love and be a responsible human being.
Were I to meet my biological mother tomorrow, I would thank her for providing me with the opportunity to be raised in a home full of love, compassion and understanding. I would also remind her that sometimes the choices we make are lasting ones. Just as my parents made a lasting choice to adopt my sister and me.
Ms. Mitchell and every other woman who gave a child up for adoption made a lasting choice.
TIMOTHY K. EPPLEY
Virginia Beach, Dec. 24, 1996