However, lately it has been brought to my attention by several individuals I know that some consider it inappropriate for Americans to adopt babies from other countries. The personal attacks that both I and my parents have faced on this issue have been appalling. I think it should be understandable to anyone that a child's life is important regardless of where it was born.

That statement is, I'll admit, not the only reason behind us adopting. My family wanted another baby, and quite frankly, China's adoption program is more stable than America's. If international adoption is offensive to some American citizens, then I say look at the problems with the American system and work to fix them. Don't decide not to act and then think you have the right to judge my family for loving an innocent little girl. If you request change, you must work for it. Judging solves nothing.

Elise Grongstad

Salt Lake City