By Alex Kuch, born in Romania and adopted to Germany and raised in New Zealand, on the team of I’m Adopted

Top image is the Memorial of the Romanian Revolution on 25 Dec 1989

“Silent night, peaceful night,
Children’s joy, hearts alight,
Gifts we bring to their tender care,
Smiles that show the love we share,
Calm in the midst of pain,
Hope in the Christmas rain.

Silent night, hallowed night,
Reflecting hearts, memories bright,
A decade past, a place once cold,
Now seen with strength, hearts bold,
Peace in the silent still,
Time heals the deepest chill.

Silent night, sacred night,
Romanian dreams, freedom’s flight,
Echoes of history, cries of the brave,
In each heart, a memory to save,
Joy and sorrow blend,
Light of Christmas, hearts mend.”

This is a poem inspired by Silent Night and my personal refections of visiting my birth country Romania. I’ve just visited a Romanian children’s home on Christmas day that I had been to see 10 years ago. I’m also reflecting on the Romanian revolution that was 35 years ago which contributed to adoptions like mine because the socio-economic situation back then had devastating impacts.

Resources

Romania from the Lens of a Returning Adoptee

Searching for my family in Romania

Mariela Neagu and her book: Voices from the Silent Cradles

Tips and Suggestions for Returning to Birth Country

Adoptee presentation to New Zealand, Alex is one of the 6 panelists