Read Part 1 and Part 2. As the concert was ending, the last piece was the rousing and enthusiastic 1812 Overture. It is a very popular musical piece in the U.S. during patriotic events, and even those who may not enjoy classical music usually like the 1812 Overture. It is one of those pieces of classical music that you probably recognize even if you do not know its name.

At just the right times toward the end of the piece, fireworks magically exploded over the stage, seemingly in perfect collaboration with the music. I glanced at the little girls behind us during the fireworks and could tell that they were thoroughly enjoying the fireworks. Their faces featured broad, excited and happy smiles, and they appeared to be having the time of their lives. They seemed almost giddy.

The concert over, as we packed up to head home, my husband turned to the family and commented on how sophisticated the girls were. He was impressed with the fact that they listened quietly during the concert, and yet seemed to be enjoying the evening - he considered their behavior "sophisticated" or mature. One of the girls volunteered that they were celebrating the third anniversary of their adoption. The elder woman of the family acknowledged agreed that they were. The father quipped something about really the girls had adopted them.

By now, we were all packed up and ready to leave. My husband made a suitable polite comment about how great that was, and I smiled and walked away without a word. For once, I did not want to hear about adoption. There was a wonderful story of adoption in that family; I am certain. However, I did not want to hear it that evening. As we walked away and were far enough away so for the family to hear, my husband and I joked about the irony of the situation. "Oh, no," he chuckled", the "A" word. I smiled a sad smile and replied, "Oh, nooooo, not tonight, I refuse to talk about it tonight."