The Ready, Set, Go Show! is created with the intent to inspire creativity, singing, movement, and play.

​Here’s a description of the episode titled Making Sunshine for the Journey: A Conversation About Adoption and Belonging:

My guest David Bohl shares thoughts about his experience with being relinquished and adopted when he was a baby. He gives adults who have any connection to a child that has been adopted a thoughtful perspective which comes from his own life and also his work as a therapist. David also shares activities and experiences that have given him a sense of belonging throughout his life and how meaningful it is to be a new grandparent. He has published a memoir, Parallel Universes: The Story of Rebirth and co-written a book, Relinquishment and Addiction: What Trauma Has to Do With It along with Jamie Marich, PhD. Find out about these books and more at davidbbohl.com

Thanks for listening and for your support!

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It was a special time with Miss Katie (aka Kathryn.  Please read more abut Kathryn and the amazing work she does teaching children and families.

Kathryn is also a talented musician. Check out some of her music here.

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“At the International Impact Book Awards, our mission is to celebrate and recognize the exceptional work of authors from around the world. We are dedicated to elevating the voices of independent authors, traditional publishing houses, and forward-thinking publishers, acknowledging their dedication and passion for storytelling.”

Author David B. Bohl is honored to be selected for this award, and grateful to have touched so many readers so deeply.

#addictionrecovery #addictionmedicine #addictionpsychiatry #addiction #alcoholism #mindfulness #substanceusedisorders #psychotherapy #interventions #angst #connection #family #mindfulness #recovery #relationships #adoption #adopted #focusonthefamily

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Check out our conversation below.

Relinquishment, Addiction, and the Healing Power of Water Part 1

Relinquishment, Addiction, and the Healing Power of Water Part 2

The post Relinquishment, Addiction, and the Healing Power of Water: Family Twist Podcast appeared first on David B. Bohl.

As I care for and soothe my grandson, I feel an overwhelming sense of humble competence, and, yes, maybe even wisdom. This feeling is something I did not always possess as a father, especially with my first child. I remember the uncertainty, the second-guessing, the fear that I might not get it right. And when my kids were older, I wasn’t always able to be present for them because of my active addiction. There are parts of their childhood that I only know from photographs and in that way, I know I have robbed myself of the very thing I’ve been searching for which was the sense of belonging. But now, as a grandfather, there is calm. There’s knowing that I am solid and that others can count on me because I know I can count on myself. There’s a quiet confidence that comes from experience too, from having lived through those early days of parenting and learning so much along the way. And being present, I am more at ease now, more attuned to the rhythm of a baby’s needs. I know how to cradle him just so, how to soothe his cries with a gentle hum or a soft touch. It’s as if I am rediscovering a part of myself I didn’t know existed back then—a part that feels steady and secure.

Being with my grandson also gives me ample time to reflect on what I lacked during my own early years and what I needed but did not receive. As a relinquishee I carry with me the echoes of that early separation from my family of origin. Those echoes have shaped who I am in countless ways, some visible, others hidden deep within. Now, as I look into the eyes of this tiny new human, I can’t help but think about the things I wish had been communicated to me when I was his age. I think how being relinquished probably robbed me of the ability to recognize those things even if they were present in my life. For those reasons and because that is simply my job as his grandfather, I want my grandson, Powers, to know that he is loved unconditionally. Not just know it intellectually, but feel it, down to the core of his being, for the entirety of his life. That is my deepest hope for him—that he walks through this world never doubting that he is cherished, valued, and loved beyond measure.

There is also a profound sense of empowerment that comes from being able to pass along my medical and genetic history to this new generation. Growing up, I didn’t have the benefit of knowing these things about myself. There were always blanks about who I was and where I came from. But now, I can offer this knowledge to Powers and his parents. I can give them a fuller picture, one that includes not just the genetic details but the story of resilience, of survival, of finding one’s way back to family. This ability to share feels like a gift, not just to them, but to myself as well. It allows me to better understand the reality of who I am, to piece together the fragments of my own story into something whole and coherent.

It is an indescribable honor that my son and his wife have chosen to name him Powers Timothy David Bohl, giving him my name. This gesture speaks volumes—it is an acknowledgment, a tribute, a weaving together of past and present. It tells me that they see me, that they understand the journey I have been on, and that they honor it. In some ways, it feels like a balm for the wounds of the past, a way of rewriting the narrative into one of connection and continuity.

Photo by Aditya Romansa on Unsplash

As I look ahead, I am filled with hope and wonder. I hope to be there for Powers as he grows, to be a steady presence in his life, to share with him not just stories of where he comes from, but also lessons of resilience, of love, of the power of family. I am not a religious person, but this baby, this remarkable little human, is truly a miracle. He is not only a unique individual, but his very existence is an extraordinary event. Given the disruptions and gaps in his ancestral DNA—my own history of being separated from my birth family—it feels like a phenomenon that he is here at all. His birth is a reminder of the resilience of life, of the way love and family can transcend the fractures of the past. I know that his arrival isn’t about me, but I can’t help but feel so grounded as my family expands. It feels like a circle is being completed, one that I had never imagined would close.

The post A Full Circle in Reality – When a Relinquishee/ Adoptee/ MPE Becomes a Grandparent appeared first on David B. Bohl.

I am writing to let you know that I have accepted a full-time opportunity to collaborate with a world-class leader in the addiction and mental health arena. As a result, after several years of facilitating the Addiction and Adoption Constellation Support Group, I will need to step aside in service to this new commitment.

Our final group together will be on Tuesday, August 20th.

We are actively searching for a new facilitator and will keep you posted of new developments.

It is my hope that we were able to create a safe and supportive environment for all who ventured into our sphere. Likewise, I truly hope that the discussions, resources, and ensuring that everyone felt heard and valued affected you in increasingly positive ways. You all played a crucial role in the healing and growth of each member of this group.

Navigating the complexities of addiction and adoption is no small feat. It requires immense strength to confront and overcome the challenges that derive from these experiences. Your willingness to share your stories, offer support, and extend a helping hand to others in similar situations is a testament to your incredible character and compassion.

To those who have opened up about their journeys, your vulnerability is a powerful gift. By sharing your experiences, you not only help others feel less alone, but also foster a sense of community and understanding that is invaluable to so many. Your stories of triumph, struggle, and perseverance provide hope and encouragement to all who hear them.

Together, you all create a space where healing and recovery are possible. Your collective strength and empathy make a profound difference in the lives of those who are part of this community. Please know that your efforts are deeply appreciated and that you have made a significant impact.

Thank you for being a beacon of hope and support. Your commitment to each other and to the journey of recovery is truly remarkable. I am honored to witness the incredible work you do and the positive change you bring to the world.

I hereby express my deepest gratitude and admiration for each one of you. Your courage, resilience, and unwavering support for one another are truly inspiring.

With Heartfelt Appreciation,

David B. Bohl

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From Rejection and Isolation to Connection and Healing

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“…distinguished marine biologist, esteemed author, beloved husband and father. Dr. Nichols’ revolutionary work in marine biology and influential book, Blue Mind, have left an indelible mark and inspired countless people.”

Today of all days, I am grateful for his work, his friendship, and the hope and optimism his Blue Mind practices provide.

Read other blogs about Blue Mind and Dr. Wallace J. Nichols here:

• THE MAN WHO RETURNED ME TO MY MIND: A TRIBUTE TO BLUE MIND SCIENTIST DR. WALLACE J. NICHOLS
• BLUE MIND AND ADDICTION RECOVERY
• BLUE MIND AND RELINQUISHEES/ ADOPTEES
• MY BLUE MIND EXPERIENCES: RECASTING THE NARRATIVE
• IS SECULAR SPIRITUALITY EVEN POSSIBLE? FINDING YOUR BLUE MIND

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Fireside Adoptees Fireside Adoptees’ motto (from their Facebook page is:

“C community
A advocate
M mentor
P pace”

“We want to encourage and empower adoptees to work within their Community, Advocate for themselves and others, Mentor those who are farther behind in the journey called life, and set a slow and steady Pace so we don’t burn out and to help others also learn to pace their journey.

We aim to help adoptees see the heroes within themselves, and how they can draw strength from their pain/challenges.”

Please check out the interview here.

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