A daily contemplative practice where adoptive parents view their child as Rabia viewed God: as the beloved worthy of complete attention, wonder, and devotion.
Rabia's mystical poetry centered on God as the Beloved—a being worthy of her complete attention and longing. Adoptive parents can adapt this practice by regularly pausing to see their child through eyes of pure love and wonder, setting aside achievement metrics, behavioral corrections, or future planning. This might involve a brief morning meditation, an evening reflection, or a transition ritual where the parent consciously shifts into a state of tender presence. The practice counteracts the tendency in adoptive families to remain hyper-focused on proving the adoption was "right"—through perfect outcomes or exceptional children. Instead, it returns attention to the present relationship: Who is this person before me? What is miraculous about their existence? What do they need to feel truly treasured? This contemplative shift deepens the parent's capacity to provide the consistent, non-contingent love that adoptive children often need to heal.
Peri can explain this concept, give practical examples, help you decide whether it applies to your situation, or recommend a journey if appropriate.
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