44 Years Later, Korean Adoptee Explores His Roots on Holt Heritage Tour

 

Today, we went to Holt and conducted my roots search. Prior to the search, I was already aware that it may not produce any new results. The usual feelings of indifference, disconnection, confusion, fear, sadness and anger arose.

 

 

The reason why my mother abandoned me will forever remain a mystery, but it is clear that for whatever reason or reasons, she could not continue to care for me. This has weighed heavy on my heart, and I’ve finally come to terms with it. Dr. Cho explained to us that the consequences of war and division resulted in much strife and hardship for South Koreans.   Life became more difficult as access to resources dwindled.

 

 

To bring closure, I would like to say to my mother that I forgive you for doing what you had to do. I don’t blame you nor am I angry at you anymore. I hope that you were able to find peace and happiness in the midst of chaos.

 

 

 

The only new piece of information I received was about the date and time that I was found. On Feb 24, 1975, I was discovered in the Suhbisan Police Drop Box in Taegu City. Since then, the station has closed and Taegu became Daegu.

 

 

Next, we travelled Daegu to retrace that part of my early life. We arrived at the former White Lily Orphanage and were met by Sister Theresa.  Meeting Sister Theresa was wonderful and invoked a familiar feeling of comfort and love. The highlight of the visit was when she sat me down in the children’s play area and piled stuffed animals on me. At the end of our visit, she gave me some juice to drink and hugged me. It warmed my heart to know that 44 years later, I felt how much love and care was given to me as an orphan.