Visit The Colorado Heritage Camps, Inc.

Colorado Heritage Camps for Adoptive Families

Chosen Hearts

We came from near, we came from far,
We came by plane and truck and car;
We came to grow, to laugh, to share,
We came to camp because we dare:

To wonder, explore, cook, hike, and canoe,
To learn why our families do what we do;
To glimpse with our minds, to hold with our hands,
Because like nowhere else, here, folks understand.

Understand that adoption for each is unique,
Understand what I’m saying when I just cannot speak,
Understand how I cherish with awe quite profoundly
This kindred of spirits now gathered around me.

We watched and we cheered as our children paraded
Through a beautiful passage volunteers had created;
We picnicked on hot dogs, posole, and dust,
Then heard from the board: It’s raise money or bust!

We learned what the media says: how and why;
And to peacefully start out our statements with “I”;
Tried to grasp what it is adolescents are wanting,
And that – for both sides – can be rather daunting.

Just what can I say to a daughter so mad?
How can I forgive sister, brother, or Dad?
Or share secret thoughts that I have with my Mom
So we both don’t explode like a couple of bombs.

We had a fiesta, survived wind and storm,
Learned about holidays, and cultural norms;
We crafted and painted, created a village;
We pot-lucked and partied with minimal spillage!

We met one to one, congregated in groups,
Cried over coffee, snuggled on cabin stoops;
We danced the merenge with verve and bravado,
And some, I hear tell, even shopped El Mercado!

Alas, until next year, we all now are leaving,
With hearts full of joy, happy tears, and some grieving;
So in closing, I’ll take you back where we began:
To Friday’s beginning, come with me. You can.

Children: know that you were chosen, in our hearts we rejoice!
You’ve given us love - by your deeds and your voice,
So when we are close or have grown far apart,
Know that you have gifted us yours and our hearts.

Ira Slotkin, 2008
At Latin American Heritage Camp 2008