Children are a cherished blessing. For many, becoming a parent is a lifelong dream. Even with all the crying, tantrums, late nights, and early mornings, kids bring immense joy to a parent’s life. Unfortunately, not everyone can conceive a child for various reasons. Adoption provides a wonderful opportunity to give a child a loving home. However, some people still feel the need to criticize others for their choice to become parents.

Hoda Kotb, a proud mother of two adopted children, recently shared her experience with harsh criticism about becoming a mother in her 50s.

“I got a letter that was addressed to me, in someone’s handwriting, to my house, she recalled. I opened the letter, and it was something along the lines of ‘How dare you, bringing a child into this world at your age. Don’t you know what you’re doing to that child?’”

She noted that the letter went on and on with criticism.

“It took my breath away,” she admitted.

Reflecting on the letter’s impact, she thought about her own father and the positive influence parents can have, regardless of how much time they have with their children.

“My dad passed when I was in college, and I remember thinking, ‘We have our parents for a period of time,’" she shared. "I know the foundation he left. I know it was worth every second of that time, so I thought about that, too.”

In the face of hurtful criticism, Hoda Kotb stands firm in her belief that love, not age, defines a parent. Her experience highlights the immense joy and fulfillment that comes from giving a child a home, no matter how unconventional the journey to parenthood may seem to others. Kotb’s reflections on her own father’s lasting impact serve as a powerful reminder that the time we have with our loved ones is what truly matters.

By choosing to focus on love and gratitude, Hoda continues to inspire others to embrace the beauty of parenthood, regardless of the obstacles or judgments they may face.