I Want to Be Adopted (Yes, Even as an Adult)

Some of us grow up and realize that being alive doesn’t automatically mean we’re loved, respected, or even allowed a shred of independence in the home we’re stuck in. I’m an adult, unemployed, and apparently destined to live in the same house I desperately want to escape—because why not keep crushing someone’s spirit for free, right?

So here’s a radical idea: adopt me. Not because I’m a child. Not because I have no parents. But because, shocker, even adults need care, compassion, and some space to breathe. I want someone to look at me and say, “Yes, you deserve respect. Yes, you deserve kindness. Yes, I see you, and I’m not going to gaslight or guilt-trip you.” Seems revolutionary, doesn’t it?

Let’s get real. Humans are wired to crave connection and attachment. Deny it all you want, but isolation—especially when you’re trapped in an environment that feels like emotional quicksand—wrecks brains, hearts, and self-esteem. Studies even back me up: supportive relationships can literally rewire the stress circuits in your brain. But hey, who needs science when you have passive-aggressive parenting and endless “helpful” lectures?

I don’t want a pity party. I want the kind of love that doesn’t make me feel like a burden for existing. I want the kind of home that isn’t a cage masquerading as safety. Is that too much to ask? Apparently it is. But maybe, somewhere in this absurdly large world, someone would take a chance on me, treat me like a daughter, and—wild concept—actually care.

Until then, I’m stuck. Stuck in a house that feels like a trap, stuck wishing for rescue, stuck sarcastically hoping the universe finally gets its act together. But I’ll say it anyway: I want to be adopted. And yes, I’m old enough to know I deserve it.