ONE WORD: Abortion

Oct 21, 2012 | 12 comments

Recently I posted a question on my Facebook page: How do you feel about abortion? I know it’s a Hot-Button issue. My intent is not to stir the waters, not to preach my personal views. Just to find out what other people think.

It’s been eye-opening and I appreciate everyone’s input.

The two most popular words in this discussion are “choice” and “murder”. When all the color fades away and the soapboxing is over what’s left is “choice” and “murder”.

Abortion is a political topic, a religious topic, and a personal topic. I strongly believe that no matter where you fall in the spectrum, your view contains both those words.

Everyone makes a choice when it comes to abortion. You choose to be Pro-Life or Pro-Choice. You choose whether to allow abortion into your life or not. And you may choose differently in different stages of your life.

Everyone chooses to believe whether or not it’s murder. Differing studies and beliefs state life begins at conception, in the womb, or at birth. Your personal belief strongly affects your choice.

I’m not going to delve into scientific research and religious views. Because for every pro there is a con, and for every “A” there is a “B”. And it bothers me when people pit religion and science and politics against each other. Every side has their own foundation.

But I’d like to ask a few questions:

  1. At what stage does a fetus become a person?
  2. If a woman has the right to choose what happens to her own body, who chooses what happens to the baby?
  3. Why is it okay to legislate against murder, but not against abortion?
  4. If abortion is a religious topic, does it belong in legislation?
  5. If abortion is a legal issue, how can it be Pro-Choice (left up to the individual)?
  6. If abortion is a personal decision, why should it be publicly decided?
  7. Are there other issues that fall under the Religious v. Political umbrella?

I’m not sure where I stand on abortion legislation. I have my personal beliefs, but I’m not a “one size fits all” kinda Doll. I realize no matter what I feel/think/believe, there are others who support my views and others who don’t. And there are situations in which my perspective has no bearing.

I believe, whether or not abortion is legal, it will still be performed. The world as a whole has grown comfortable with the idea and you can’t un-ring a bell. If abortion is legal, it protects women. If not, while it tries to protect the fetus, it will cause abortionists and women to become criminals in the eyes of the law.

I don’t quite understand why, what so many claim to be a personal choice, needs to be decided so publicly, for everyone.

Everyone’s story is different. Everyone’s background, heritage, experience, and life is different.

After reading and talking with you, you’ve reaffirmed that abortion is not a “one size fits all” kind of discussion.

And I’m left with this simple statement:

There is no simple answer.

And Frankly, My Dear… that’s all she wrote!

Sweeten my tea and share:

Why I’m Not Political

Jan 25, 2012 | 0 comments

I’m absolutely dreading what the news and chatter will be on Wednesday. I’m already thinking of ways to avoid the internet. I just know no matter what, there will be an abundance of smack-talk leaning one way or another.

As I write this, I’m waiting for the President’s State of the Union Address to begin. I’ve been more interested in political events this past year than ever before in my life. I’ve learned a lot about the workings of the world. And I’ve learned to keep my mouth shut.

I’m not a political person. I like facts, not attacks. I listen to all sides. I research and investigate. But no matter what stance I take, I’d be certain to offend and alienate people.

So I don’t discuss politics.

I have my basic views: what’s right is right, what’s wrong is wrong. The Bible tells us to simply let our “yes” be “yes” and our “no” be “no”. (Matthew 5:37). Not, “I’ll scratch your back, you scratch mine.” Not, “What have you done for me lately?”

So I don’t understand politics.

I’ll end up voting for who I believe to be the best Candidate. I don’t care about crossing party lines. I care about my Country. I will study and watch and observe and learn and choose who I believe in.

So I don’t trust politics.

I believe in the American Dream. I strive to do the best for my family. I don’t resent anyone else who does the same. I like doing my best. I like doing my part and not being stifled.

So I don’t agree with politics.

I don’t like excuses. I don’t like lies. I don’t like games. I like honesty. I like responsibility. I like authenticity.

So I don’t like politics.

And Frankly, My Dear… that’s all she wrote!

Sweeten my tea and share: