Don't Give Up!

It's been close to a year now, but my search ended last June when after an active search for over 5 years ended when I found my birth father, birth mother and the 2 brothers and 4 sisters that came with them. Of the siblings, I knew only of one going into my search.

To make a long story short, I had to hire an intermediary in the state of Michigan to access court records. What I thought would take several months took less than a week. Michigan has closed adoption records and this was the only way that I would find my birth family.

Within two days of the call from my intermediary, I exchanged my first e-mail with my birth mother. A few days letter, I heard her voice for the first time. I would also receive a call from my birth father while I was out. When I returned it, my sister answered. I was lost as what to say. I would end up speaking with her AND one of my
brother's together. We spoke for an hour just learning of each other. It was strange but so satisfying.

for California

My birth father would fly to my home to meet me, the child he never even knew about. It was a moment that I will never forget. We spent 3 days together before he
returned home.

Last July, I went out to Michigan to meet my family. First, my birth father's side where I met my 2 brothers and a sister not to mention neices, nephews and family friends. I would also drive 3 hours north to meet my birth mother and the 3 sisters I had there. Again, I was lost for words or even feelings. I just felt numb but in a
few short days, we learned much about one another.

Since then, we all talk frequently. While it's been difficult for my wife, I am making a slow bond. I do love them for the gift they gave me...the gift of life.

I want all who continue to search to NOT GIVE UP!!! It's hard to search but the end is all worth it. I do hope those of you who do search continue. So many questions will be answered and yes, so many more will come about as well. If someone wishes to contact me, please do so at: charlesculpepper@yahoo.com.

John C. Montgomery II
(aka: Charles Culpepper)

Credits: John C. Montgomery II