Mom, why do people adopt kids?

My kids hear about adoption a lot in this house. I am a huge advocate for adoption and often talk to others about the process, the need...my desire. We also talk to our kids openly about their own adoptions. It's their stories, part of their history and part of who they are. I always want an open door relationship with my kids and so far that is just what I have with our son (8 years old). Our daughter is 3 and while she will talk about 'her story' I'm not sure she actually 'gets it' yet. Hulk was around 4 years old when he really started to understand better so I'm sure Bug's day will be coming soon when she'll start asking more questions.


But tonight when tucking Hulk into bed, we had this conversation. This boy will change the world one day. He is remarkable and I can't wait to see how God uses him.

Hulk: Mom, why do people adopt kids

Me: Why do you think?
Hulk: I think people adopt kids so they won't be orphans anymore

Me: Can you tell me what makes a kid an orphan?
Hulk: An orphan is a kid that doesn't have parents or a family.

Me: That's right.
Hulk: So I think people adopt kids so they don't have to be orphans anymore. I'm glad you and Daddy adopted me. *pause* I'm glad I'm not an orphan anymore. I'm glad Bug isn't an orphan either.

Me: Baby I wouldn't have it any other way. God knew how our family would be brought together long before we had a clue.
 Hulk: If I could have made a choice when I still lived in Guatemala, I know exactly what parents I would choose.

Me: Really? Can you tell me about the parents you would choose (trying to stay calm, while quietly wondering. I always try to let him talk more than me when we talk adoption or specifically about his story).
Hulk: *started to giggle* I would choose a mommy who acted silly sometimes and wanted everyone in the world to adopt orphans and a fun daddy who likes to hunt and play sports. *giggling*

Me: REALLY? (dramatically)
Hulk: yep...I would choose you and Daddy. I love you Mommy!

Me: I love you too Hulk. You are one special kid and I love your heart.
Hulk: Maybe one day everyone will adopt a kid. I don't want any kid to not have a family.

Me: That would be great. I want every kid to have a family too.
Hulk: Ok...goodnight
Me: Goodnight Hulk. Love you

This boy gets my heart. He is a typical boy. He loves avengers, ninja turtles and xbox. But what is not typical about him is his heart. He has compassion like no other child I have ever met. He has a heart for adoption. He has a heart for changing the world. And HE WILL!! The truth is...he already has.