We are thrilled to present the largest issue yet of the Adoptee Voices eZine: Mirror. Submissions are from adoptee writers who attended our eight-week writing group this fall, from two groups that met on different nights: One group, with a focus on craft and publication, and the other, with a focus on writing as an emotional playground. We were inspired to see many writers attend both groups.

Dedicated writers, intent on exploring their stories in communion with others, met in a supportive virtual space to write. Crossing many time zones, writers from varied backgrounds explored the one thing they had in common: the unique experience of being adopted. Writing prompts were designed to help writers delve into their childhoods, explore the experience of being genetically uprooted, and look deeply into feelings evoked by adoption.

Listening to the writers read their pieces, we were all transported to the distinct world of the adoptee reading. We learned from each other and heard many of our own adoption experiences reflected back to us. The fascination with mirrors was one such shared experience. As happened often when someone read, all heads in individual Zoom squares nodded in recognition of the complicated relationship with mirrors, and the search for self in a flat polished surface.

Just as a fascination with mirrors was shared, so to was the sanctity of aloneness. Being adopted is a lonely experience. We are often alone with our grief about so many things related to adoption, not just relinquishment. Coming together to write, share, and support each other is brave, especially when being alone is more comfortable.

Thirteen of these brave writers have submitted their reflections to this edition. We thank them for lifting their adoptee voices so we can all be seen.