It can be difficult to find music that represents adoption and how we feel. Today, I wanted to share a few songs that always make me think about our adoption–whether because they’re explicitly about adoption, or because they’re about that special love between a parent and a child. I’ve shared with you my top six favorites and my favorite line from them.
1.) I Hope You Dance by LeeAnn Womack
I hope you never fear those mountains in the distance,
Never settle for the path of least resistance
Livin’ might mean takin’ chances but they’re worth takin’
Whenever I hear the line, “livin’ might mean takin’ chances, but they’re worth takin'” I immediately think of all of the chances we had to take in order to become parents. Never easy, but completely worth it!
2.) From God’s Arms to My Arms to Yours by Marie Osmond.
Now I know you don’t have to do this, but could you kiss him once for me
The first time that he ties his shoes or falls and skins his knee,
And could you hold him twice as long when he makes his first mistake
And tell him that he’s not alone, sometimes that’s all it takes I know how much he’ll ache.
This song is written from the perspective of a biological mom to an adoptive mom. It brings me to tears every time. It is an excellent reminder that our babies really are twice loved.
3.) Lullaby In Blue by Bette Midler.
As the years go by, try not to think of us sadly.
Believe it if you can, I wanna see you so badly.
On your birthday, Mama’s thinking of you.
The child I never knew.
This one is written from a biological mom to the child she placed for adoption. It’s just a beautiful reminder that no matter the situation, moms never stop loving their children.
4.) Bless the Broken Road by Rascal Flatts.
But I got lost a time or two
Wiped my brow and kept pushing through
I couldn’t see how every sign pointed straight to you
I know this one is supposed to be about romantic love, but there’s only one use of the word “lover” in the whole thing. Every other part makes me think of the long, painful road we walked and how it all lead to our sweet girl!
5.) With Arms Wide Open by Creed.
With arms wide open
Under the sunlight
Welcome to this place
I’ll show you everything
With arms wide open
Now everything has changed
I’ll show you love
I’ll show you everything
I think this one is intended to be about becoming biological parents, but every bit of it applies to how we feel about our adopted children, too: amazed, nervous, excited, and full of love.
6.) Officially Alive by Brad Paisley.
It’s not the double kick of an ultrasound
Or a piece of paper on file downtown
It takes more than a beat and a breath and a name
It’s when you’re so in love and so in pain
This is my favorite part of this song, the last line, there. It so beautifully describes adoption.
