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Old Aug 12, 2011, 07:07 PM
*doodles*'s Avatar
*doodles* *doodles* is offline
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Member Since: Apr 2011
Location: US
Posts: 224
Hi lost,
First off, I'm sorry you are in such a difficult situation.
I think your T's suggestion seems a little black and white. I'm all for making decisions based on those kinds of lists, but not such a life impacting decision such as keeping or giving your baby up for adoption. I think that's something you really have to look inside yourself for the answer. I was in a (somewhat) similar situation a few years ago, so I know that pain you are going through. I can say that no matter which way you decide, you will probably always wonder "what if". People only tend to think of that one way(adoption), but I kept my daughter and there are still some hard days where I wonder if she would have been better off if I had given her to a "real" family.
If you truly want to keep the baby, there IS a way to do it. Don't think just because of your issues, or lack of money, you have to go the adoption route. There is SO much help out there if you reach out! You can get some financial assistance until you find a job, and therapy and parenting classes to help you work through your issues and build your confidence as a mother. You CAN absolutely do it IF thats what you truly want.
But I also think adoption is such a wonderful choice, too. If you believe deep within yourself that you cannot do this, then giving the baby a wonderful like with a great family is an honorable decision. However, the baby's father can refute it. I know if my state the father has either 30 or 60 days to dispute it and claim custody. But of course, he has to know that you are doing this. Are you still in contact? Is there any hope of you guys seeing an adoption counselor together, or even a regular counselor to try and get him to understand why you think adoption would be a good choice?
But honestly it sounds to me like you truly want to keep her, but you are just scared. I've been there. It IS scary...its scary for any new parent, but add in depression, not having support/good role models, a not so good/uninvolved father, and money/job issues, well its really scary. But you can do this!! All she truly needs is your love, the rest can be figured out.
But whatever you decide, I am sure it will be for the best for you and your child!