The Power of Stories: How My Journey as an Adoptee Shaped My Life

Introduction

I want to share my story with you, a journey that has shaped who I am and informs the work I do as a coach for adoptees and their loved ones through iiChange. By sharing my experiences in this blog post, I hope to inspire you to explore your own story and recognize how our narratives connect us. Let’s celebrate the power of storytelling and the transformative connections we create with the help of iiChange.

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My Early Beginnings: A Story of Abandonment and Hope

I was first named Kim Jinja, a name assigned to me by the Holt International Adoption Agency. I was told that I had been abandoned in a box with a note from my birth mother and spent a month in foster care. This experience, although I have no memories of it, is a foundational part of my story.

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In 1973, my story was featured in the Eastern Colorado News, where I was labeled as a special needs child. This label, while meant to categorize my situation, also shaped many perceptions about my worth and potential as I grew up.

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When I look back at my life, I remember the people who truly shaped my upbringing—my family. My great-grandmother Anna, after whom I was named, my siblings, and my loving parents have always been my grounding force. 

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People often ask if I’ve ever wanted to know my biological parents – as of today, I don’t know the answer to that question. 

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Finding Solace in Stories

Amidst the chaos of my emotions, I found comfort in libraries and books. Stories became my refuge, offering me a glimpse into worlds where I could escape my reality. One of my favorite books was “The Pinballs” by Betsy Byars. Even though I didn’t have memories of my foster care experience, I connected deeply with Carlie, the main character. Through her strength and sassiness, I learned valuable lessons about resilience and the importance of caring for others, regardless of blood ties.

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As I reflect on my life, I realize how stories like these shaped my understanding of family and belonging. They taught me that love transcends biological connections and that we can create meaningful relationships with those around us, a principle that aligns with the core values of iiChange.

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Another character that resonated with me was Pippi Longstocking. Although I didn’t have red hair or her extravagant lifestyle, Pippi’s adventurous spirit and independence inspired me. She taught me to embrace creativity, find joy in the mundane, and believe in myself, qualities that have been pivotal in my journey of self-acceptance and are echoed in the self-management skills promoted by iiChange.

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Additionally, I found inspiration in “The Great Gilly Hopkins.” Gilly’s boldness and desire for connection mirrored my own struggles. Through her story, I learned the significance of understanding differences and respecting the unique experiences of others, themes that resonate deeply with the community support found within iiChange.

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The Challenges of Being an Adoptee

Like many adoptees, I have grappled with feelings of loss, rejection, guilt, shame, grief, and questions about identity. These issues are complicated and can be exacerbated by societal misconceptions about adoption. Through iiChange, I have learned to navigate these challenges with greater understanding and empowerment.

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Throughout my life, I encountered trauma and sought help from various counselors. Each one would ask if I wanted to talk about my adoption, and I would always refuse, believing I had more pressing issues to address. I often felt isolated and misunderstood, as if I didn’t quite belong anywhere. It wasn’t until I engaged with the iiChange community that I began to feel truly seen and supported.

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My Journey into Radio

As my life progressed, my passion for storytelling led me to the world of radio. Just before the pandemic, I returned to my home state and was introduced to community radio to share stories, information, and resources with our listeners. I learned how to engineer and host a radio show, which led to The Anna Jinja Show.

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Moving to Athens was a pivotal moment for me. I initially hesitated to continue my radio show, but I realized I had a platform to share my story and those of others. Each week, I have to say my middle name aloud — Jinja — a reminder of my identity and the journey I’ve undertaken, one that is enriched through my work with iiChange.

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An Invitation to Share Your Story

As I reflect on my experiences, I invite you to share your own story. Each narrative is unique and holds the power to inspire others. If you’re interested in working with me or exploring the courses offered at iiChange, I would love to hear from you. Together, we can unlock the potential within our stories and foster a community of hope and understanding.