Thankfully, being orphaned as a child isn’t something that a large number of us will experience in our lives. Losing our parents (if they’re good ones, and sometimes even if they’re not) as adults is hard enough, but going through that trauma as a kid can definitely be devastating.
These 11 people came out on the other side, though, and now they’re recalling exactly what it was like.
But a found family will bring the same kind of joy and belonging.

Image Credit: Whisper
With whatever tools they had at their disposal.

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There are so many paths that lead to happiness in the end.

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But no one who has been there would say it was easy.

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Other people will belong there, too.

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Even though they obviously exist.

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Or as if no one wants to celebrate with you, anyway.

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Or you can let it give you compassion for others.

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Even if it doesn’t seem like it at the time.

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Just like anyone who doesn’t bring joy to your life.

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But definitely more of a challenge for some than others.

Image Credit: Whisper
I’m so thankful this was not my experience and as a parent, it’s one of my biggest fears for my own kids.
If you grew up and orphan and feel comfortable, tell us in the comments what your life has been like.