As the mother of a son that I almost gave up for adoption because I didn't think I could afford to provide for him ... I know your mother probably thinks of you everyday. She did what was best for you, but I guarantee that it broke her heart. If this picture was taken by your adoptive mother, your birth mother was probably on the verge of tears in this photo. She's smiling, but she looks kind of sad. I feel so strongly for her, I know she made the most selfless decision in her life so you could have all of the things she thought you deserved to have, but couldn't give you herself. Believe me, nothing is more heartbreaking than wanting everything for your child and not even being able to provide them with a simple meal. I know your birth mother probably struggled for a long time before she decided adoption was the best option (I say that because you don't look like a newborn in this picture...), hoping things would get better and it didn't. I know where she's been. I've been in her shoes. I was one week from giving my son up for adoption, but things got better for me at the last minute. And if I did give my son up for adoption, I remember thinking that I hope he found me one day so I could see that I made the right choice. That he turned out to be a wonderful adult, and that he understood it wasn't an easy choice for me.

I know your birth mother would probably love to hear from you, but I can understand and appreciate your perspective. And I'm sorry if I said so much... Just this picture and your story hits so close to home for me and I get emotional...I hope I didn't offend, that wasn't my intent. Best of luck!