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Emiley T.
Seattle, WA
As a foster kid, I found that permanency and supportive adults were both typically lacking. During my time in care, there was always a wave of people coming into and out of my life. I came to accept this was just a part of life. However, I now understand that all those “lost” connections were never really lost.
Even when a connection ends, the memories and experiences shared remain woven into the fabric of your being. The truth is, I wouldn’t be where I am today without all the people who came and left, whether they were my parental figures, my closest family members, or all the social human service workers who have helped me. I’ve often felt alone, but I have also felt connected and supported.
Throughout my life, I’ve come to find those who have supported me seem almost to be reincarnated. Sometimes Mom and Dad were seen in others, or the fantastic therapist and social worker I had were found again in a fantastic professor or colleague. All the supportive times, connections, and memories are within me and will never be lost. They are permanent.
If it weren’t for everyone who helped me, I would be the one who was lost. This gratitude I have is because of them. I know they are all rooting for me. This is another example of the support they have placed within me. This is why it is crucial that foster youth and all people receive support in all areas of life. There is no such thing as too much support, only the absence of it.
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