Adoptees On Craig Mod
May 2, 2025
Craig Mod, a writer and photographer known for his explorations of Japan, shares his compelling journey as an adoptee. He discusses his emotional reunion with his birth mother, unraveling complex feelings surrounding identity and belonging. The conversation touches on the challenges of DNA testing and the impact of changing adoption laws. Craig emphasizes the importance of open dialogues in adoption and reflects on personal growth through connections with biological relatives. His insights offer a fresh perspective on the adoptee experience, intertwined with his love for walking and storytelling.
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Early Adoption Awareness and Walls
- Craig Mod was aware of his adoption from a very young age but initially misunderstood the implications.
- He built emotional walls and invented a harsh origin story for self-protection during childhood.
Adoptee Identity and Trust Issues
- Living as an immigrant in Japan allowed Craig to reset his identity and escape judgmental views from his past.
- Adopted individuals often develop trust issues stemming from early parental and social experiences.
Birth Mother Reunion Story
- Craig connected anonymously on Ancestry and matched with his birth mother, who initially locked down her social media.
- After a year, she messaged him tentatively, and they eventually met for a cautious, anonymous lunch in Chicago.
