That she is loved – there will never be any doubt just how wanted she is. We will tell our child “I love you.”
That we will demonstrate that love through our actions, every day.
That as hard as it may be (for us) we will always choose to be your parents before we are your friends.
That we will make the hard choices so that you will make the right choices when the time comes.
That we will allow you to learn from your mistakes and be there with big hug when you do.
That we will move Heaven and Earth to do what is best and right for you.
That we will always be on your side when you are right – and supportive when you are wrong and help you learn to tell the difference.
That nothing will be more important, ultimately, than what is best for our family.
That we will, to the extent that any parent is able, protect you from the known, anticipate as much as we can of the unknown and do our very best to help you to grow safe and healthy.
We’ll make sure you have good doctors and that you go to them.
That we will instil good hygiene habits with you.
That more often that not we will eat a healthy home cooked meal together at the dinner table.
That we will allow you to voice your opinions and concerns as an equal in family discussions.
That we hope to lead by example in how to treat people – we will model compassion and justice in all our interactions with other people.
That we show that, though we are the parents, we have as much to learn from you as you do from us.
That we will listen to you, and we will talk to you, you will be part of all of our major decisions.
That we will drive you to rugby, or gymnastics, or language school, or nippers, or horse riding, or ballet or surfing. What ever you want to try, we will support. We will sit in the first row of every sporting event, concert, game, science fair and play that you are in.
That we will help with homework, meet with your teachers and be active participants in your education.
That we will show you the same respect as what we expect from you.
That we will celebrate your heritage and culture, that we will embrace China as we hope you will embrace Australia.
That you will be able to ask us anything about your background, culture, history, adoption and birth parents – this will always be an open book for us to discuss.
That we will laugh often and have a whole lot of fun – together.
That the best things in life are worth waiting for, and that you are proof of this.
This is our promise to you.
Love Mummy and Daddy xxx