Finding Meaning in Adversity with Stephen Rowley - Ep 154

"The experience of being stuck is a pretty good place to be, I think, a lot of times in therapy and life." - Stephen Rowley

Podcast Episode Synopsis:

In this episode of Unraveling Adoption, I had the pleasure of speaking with Stephen Rowley, a school administrator, college professor, and psychotherapist who shared his fascinating journey of adoption and destiny. Steve's memoir, The Lost Coin: A Memoir of Adoption and Destiny, delves into the complexities of adoption and the impact it has had on his life.

Steve shared insights into his adoption experience, including the profound moment of reconnecting with his birth mother at the age of 40. This emotional reunion brought a sense of closure and connection that Steve had been yearning for, despite the challenges and complexities that came with it.

Throughout the conversation, Steve delved into the Zen concept of the lost coin, highlighting the idea of mystery and intuition in navigating life's challenges and uncertainties. He shared how his adoption and relinquishment played a significant role in shaping his response to being fired from his superintendent job, leading to a period of introspection and growth.

We explored Steve's deep connection to spirituality, psychology, and therapy, discussing the importance of patience, resilience, and self-discovery in navigating life's obstacles. Steve's unique perspective on karma, belief systems, and the concept of designing one's own life path provided thought-provoking insights into personal growth and understanding.

As an advocate for progressive education and a believer in creating schools that work for all children, Steve shared his vision for transformative educational practices. His experiences growing up in the Midwest and the values instilled by his family underscored the importance of respect, kindness, and community in shaping his worldview.

Overall, Steve's story of adoption, resilience, and spiritual growth provided a powerful narrative of self-discovery and the transformative power of embracing life's challenges with patience and curiosity.

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RESOURCES:

Stephen’s information:

• Buy Stephen’s book, The Lost Coin: A Memoir of Adoption and Destiny: https://amzn.to/3xWtb11

• Check out Stephen’s website: https://stephenrowley108.com/

• Find Stephen:

• on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/srowley108 

• on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephenrowley108/

• on LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/stephen-rowley-ma-lmhc-b83ab811 

• or on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/srowley108

Other Resources:

• APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption’s Challenges: http://UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude

• Other Parents Like Me - http://oplm.com

• Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/

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Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson

Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao

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TIME STAMPS:

00:00:00 - Introduction to Unraveling Adoption
00:05:30 - Unexpected Turn of Events
00:08:09 - Impact of Adoption on Firing
00:10:28 - Reflections on Life Choices
00:14:27 - Exploring Existential Questions
00:17:21 - Finding Meaning in Adversity
00:20:16 - Vision for Progressive Education
00:21:28 - Influence of Midwest Upbringing
00:23:34 - Contact Information and Conclusion