Shawn Rapier: Adoption & How I Learned Love is Unconditional

Shawn never dreamed as a kid struggling with ADD that someday he would adopt 6 children. He humorously shares the struggles, joys and perspective he's learned from parenthood.

Episode Discussion

What it was like Living with ADD in the 1970’s and 1980’s and how he wasn’t doing well in school.
How using technology has helped Shawn with his ADD (reminders, alarms, emails, EverNote, etc)
Why it is important to not use challenges as a crutch.
Why his home is “dysfunction junction.”
The amazing story of adopting six children and having two biological children
How his parenting perspective has changed, and how God has an eternal perspective.
To change perspectives and “let go” of expectations he had to break and realize he really has no control of his kids.
When Shawn “broke” and went through a super-rough period, he realize the answer was focusing more on Christ to help and heal.
The “he is mine” answer which changed Shawn’s perspective.
How two principles can exist at the same time: God is all knowing and things are out of control.
Why learning to respect agency is so important.
Love is the antidote to hate and anger and cannot be used as a weapon or tool.
Never say something you can’t take back.
Good question to ask: Did I make peace in my home?

My Favorite Shawn Quotes About Love

“All we can do is show an increase of love and trust God to do the rest.”
“Love is not a temporary thing.”
“Love is to be given freely.”
“Forgiveness breeds love.”
“Decide to love and don’t give up.”
“If you want love, give it and give it unconditionally.”
“They can’t outrun our love!”

#tamarakanderson #storiesofhopeinhardtimes #podcast #hope #God #hardtimes #adoption #love #challenges #peace #keepgoing #children #family #humor

Transcription

You can find the transcription of today's podcast here:

www.tamarakanderson.com/podcasts/shawn-rapier-adoption-how-i-learned-love-is-unconditional

Shawn Rapier: Adoption & How I Learned Love is Unconditional 01:12:22 Share

Stories of Hope in Hard Times

Shownotes Transcript

Shawn Rapier: Adoption & How I Learned Love is Unconditional