Poem For The Adopted Child

I was adopted, but my folks never told me. I found out by accident, but I never discussed it with my parents before they died. It did not upset me (after the initial shock), but I often wonder. My father has been dead since 1972. I was going through some of his papers the other day and found this short poem which he had carried in his wallet. I wanted to share it, particularly with anyone who was adopted.

The Answer (to an adopted child)
by Fleur Conkling Heyliger

Not flesh of my flesh,
Nor bone of my bone,
But still miraculously
My own.
Never forget
For a single minute;
You didn't grow under my heart,
But in it.

Source: It may have been a Tampa or St. Petersburg newpaper in 1972 or earlier.

By Clynn Altemus from Inglis FL