Adoption Story
From Acura to Adoption
When they fell in love, both dreamed of adoption. Later came three biological children, a successful job, financial security – and a used Acura SUV, purchased after selling the old Subaru Outback. Everything seemed perfect. Yet, in this stable dream world, one wish remained alive: to give a child a home through adoption.
The Thought of Adoption
Suddenly, the topic of adoption resurfaced. I remember the many evenings on the couch when we talked about what it would be like to give a child a home that might not have a chance at a loving environment without our help. These conversations were not only filled with anticipation but also shaped by the question of how we could practically take this big step.
It was an exciting yet planning-intensive time. Ultimately, we decided on an international adoption, even though it wasn't the cheapest option. We dreamed of giving a child from another part of the world a new home and enriching our family with a new culture.
Financial Considerations
After about ten years of marriage, we knew each other well and usually agreed on financial matters. Together, we had learned to budget, plan, and act thoughtfully. However, in this case, my attitude was different. I thought, "God has called us to this, so He will provide..." But secretly, I thought, "This is too exciting to prioritize money and logistics." Such thinking is not wise. Especially in emotional moments, planning is more important than ever.
We sat down and created a detailed budget. We considered which expenses we could reduce to cover the costs of adoption. We were determined not to incur debt and wanted to ensure our financial stability was not jeopardized.
An Unconventional Proposal
My husband insisted on developing a concrete plan for financing the adoption. We examined the agency's fee structure. The costs were high but spread out over the entire duration of the adoption. However, the initial payment was several thousand dollars. There were some options for raising the money, but my husband had an unconventional idea: Perhaps we could sell the car we had just recently bought to cover the initial costs.
I was surprised. "We don't have to do that," I argued. He asked me to pray about it. He agreed that it wasn't necessary, but maybe it would be good for us. He admitted he would be just as happy with an older car that had a few more miles on it.
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Trusting God's Guidance
Eventually, we told God we were willing to sell the car. We wanted to live with open hands. But we also decided not to stress if the sale didn't happen.
And indeed, we sold it. We traded it in at a local dealer for a sporty wagon. It was the best car-buying experience we ever had, and we left the dealership with a car and a check in hand! Not bad.
Aligning Finances with Values
The lesson is that you don't always have to manage your family's finances in conventional ways. In our society, it's unfortunately quite unconventional to live debt-free and work with a written budget. The way your family handles finances should align with your values and priorities.
Today, we have a lively little boy in our home who experienced his first ride in America in a car seat in that sporty wagon. Our journey shows that trusting in God's guidance and being willing to take unconventional paths can lead to wonderful outcomes.