Grab your cup of coffee, and let's talk about some of the search and reunion issues on your mind. Karen and I have blogging about this subject for awhile now and we have covered alot. We have been fortunate to receive our fair share of comments, but, we would love even more input.

We have talked about how to begin a search, helpful data bases and resources available. Since emotions are such a huge factor in adoption search and reunion, we have blogged about many of those issues. Karen, as an adoptee who searched and found the grave of her natural mother at the end of her search has her perspective in that regard.

My perspective is that of a birth mother whose son conducted the search. I was the one who was "found" so, I discuss how that felt and how I feel today about the opportunity that being found has presented to me. I hope that you have noticed that I have never mentioned that I considered being found an "intrusion" or any of the other negative labels that you might hear.

I would love to hear more of your stories about your search, reunion or thoughts about beginning to search. What prevents you from searching? Is it fear or disinterest? Are you afraid of what you might find? Have you managed to avoid the longings that many have about wanting to know who you look like?

How did you find the name of your birth family member? Was finding the name the hardest part of your search? If not, what was most difficult aspect of searching for you?

If you are searching, what has been the hardest part of the process for you? Did you hit a brick wall at any time and then plunge ahead and finally succeed? Or did you give up in frustration?

Adoptive parents, what do you fear the most about your child having contact with their birth parents? Do you believe that it lessens your bond with your child for them to be in touch with their birth family? Are you curious about the birth family if you know nothing at all about them?