I was one of many Facebookers who posted a status about the Right to Life March on Capitol Hill today. I posted the following quote from Blessed Mother Teresa:
America needs no words from me to see how your decision in Roe vs. Wade has deformed a great nation. The so-called right to abortion has pitted mothers against their children and women against men. It has sown violence and discord at the heart of the most intimate human relationships. It has aggravated the derogation of the father's role in an increasingly fatherless society. It has portrayed the greatest of gifts--a child--as a competitor, an intrusion and an inconvenience. It has nominally accorded mothers unfettered dominion over the dependent lives of their physically dependent sons and daughters. And, in granting this unconscionable power, it has exposed many women to unjust and selfish demands from their husbands or other sexual partners.
I didn't choose that quote to demonize those who have had an abortion, or who happen to be pro-choice. I chose it because of how well it illustrates the pro-life stance. Politics may have its sticky hand involved in this issue, but ultimately, it's not about the politics. It's not a battle between the parties. This is an issue of human rights; whether you are arguing for the rights of the mother, the unborn child, or you're not sure where you stand. Either way, what pro-lifers and pro-choicers can both agree on is that the world would be a better place if abortion wasn't needed.
I don't think pro-choice people are cold-hearted. I don't think they have a lack of respect for human life. I know that no woman ever relishes the idea of having an abortion. There are some pro-lifers who would like to have you think otherwise, but I don't represent that line of thinking.
I have seen many people today post things along the lines of "You [the pro-life community] don't know what it's like not to have a voice." Well, actually, we do. To quote Ronald Reagan, "Everyone who is in favor of abortion has already been born."
While I can't speak for everyone who is pro-life, I would like to give the majority of them the benefit of the doubt and assume they are pro-life for the following reasons, as am I:
Pro-lifers lobby on behalf of the rights of the fetus, who is utterly defenseless and voiceless. The pro-life perspective believes that life begins at conception, and is no less viable than an already-born baby.
Pro-lifers do not see a difference between abortion, and taking a gun to your neighbor's head. If abortion is a form of murder, then it makes no sense to compromise and live by the "what's good for you may not be good for me" philosophy. Just as we have laws in this country against actions that harm other people, the pro-life person cannot, in good conscience, accept abortion as a choice that may be reasonable for some, but not for others.
Being pro-life has nothing to do with stigmatizing women who choose to have sex outside of marriage. It has nothing to do with wanting to go back to the dark ages where women were regarded as nothing more than baby-making machines. It has nothing to do with condemning women who do not wish to become mothers.
The ONLY agenda that a pro-lifer has is to save the lives of children. To say that the pro-life stance includes condemnation, especially of non-Christian individuals, is an unfair stereotype projected by outspoken media hypocrites. A true pro-lifer would never support the bombing of abortion clinics, or the killings of abortion doctors. To allow such people to speak for every person against abortion is no different than allowing the terrorists of 9/11 to speak for all Muslims.
I wish more people could understand that you don't have to be religious to be pro-life. I wish more people could understand that you can consider yourself a proponent of women's rights and still be pro-life. Yes, the foster care system is over-burdened, but the pro-life person does not understand how the killing of unborn, yet viable children rectifies that already messed up situation.
There is much to be understood about both perspectives on abortion, but there is no chance of ever reaching a solution if both groups continue to hold on to untrue stereotypes about each other. The quest for understanding goes nowhere until pro-choicers accept that, for the pro-lifer, an unborn child is just as valuable as one who is already born. THAT, above everything else, is the crux of the pro-life movement.
Monday, January 23, 2012
Saturday, January 21, 2012
An overflowing cup of mercy
So...remember how I decided to give my friend Anna my last $20 for her mission trip to Amsterdam, all the while praying that God would use that donation to teach me a lesson on faithfulness? Well...
Since that post was written, I have applied to 10+ other local restaurants, department stores, and grocery stores...and I am now an official employee at Panera!! I walked in for an open interview session, was one of the first to arrive, and 15 minutes later, I got hired. Ohh isn't God just awesome?!! Who'd have thunk it?
And, I start my volunteer position at the crisis center this Wednesday. Now that it's coming up, I am feeling a little bit anxious. What if it does turn out to be too much for me to handle? Does this mean I have to completely re-think my career plans?
I shouldn't assume the worst just yet. Well, I shouldn't even be assuming the worst at all (remember your resolution, Sarahbeth!). See, Jesus and I have been having some talks lately (yes, talks). And this is what I think he is telling me:
SB, for a long time you wished that someone could have shared with your 17-year-old self the lessons on relationships you know now. But you know that there was no way you could have learned those lessons without allowing your heart to be broken first. Think of this opportunity as your second chance. You are in a place of privilege to share with other women the lessons you learned in your time of depression. You can use that pain to change their lives.
Still, I am very nervous, and if anyone feels compelled to pray for me...I would deeply appreciate it.
And now, some more puppy cuteness. I think we have figured out which puppy is Dodger from the first picture we saw of the litter:
Since that post was written, I have applied to 10+ other local restaurants, department stores, and grocery stores...and I am now an official employee at Panera!! I walked in for an open interview session, was one of the first to arrive, and 15 minutes later, I got hired. Ohh isn't God just awesome?!! Who'd have thunk it?
And, I start my volunteer position at the crisis center this Wednesday. Now that it's coming up, I am feeling a little bit anxious. What if it does turn out to be too much for me to handle? Does this mean I have to completely re-think my career plans?
I shouldn't assume the worst just yet. Well, I shouldn't even be assuming the worst at all (remember your resolution, Sarahbeth!). See, Jesus and I have been having some talks lately (yes, talks). And this is what I think he is telling me:
SB, for a long time you wished that someone could have shared with your 17-year-old self the lessons on relationships you know now. But you know that there was no way you could have learned those lessons without allowing your heart to be broken first. Think of this opportunity as your second chance. You are in a place of privilege to share with other women the lessons you learned in your time of depression. You can use that pain to change their lives.
Still, I am very nervous, and if anyone feels compelled to pray for me...I would deeply appreciate it.
And now, some more puppy cuteness. I think we have figured out which puppy is Dodger from the first picture we saw of the litter:
Altogether now: Awwwwwwww!
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Winners, losers, and the faith of Tim Tebow
Yes, I am jumping into the media frenzy about Tim Tebow. I didn't want to, I really didn't...but just like the Very Kardashian Divorce train wreck, there are people saying things about him that are accurate...and some things that are based in misconceptions about Christianity which, once again, give non-believers a flawed picture of who God is...and who he is not.
It may surprise some people to hear that I'm not an avid Tebow fan. But from what I hear of him, he seems very...genuine. He's one of the few outspoken Christians in the media today who seems to walk his talk, and has yet to be caught with a sex tape or some kind of ponzi scheme. For that, I can respect him. He's under so much pressure and so much scrutiny, yet he's barely a year older than I am and seems to be handling it well. For that, I can respect him.
But, when it comes down to it, Tim Tebow is a football player...and I really don't have much interest in football. There doesn't seem to be anything truly remarkable about his skills as a quarterback, from what I hear, which is why I'm sure so many people can't stand him -- because his personal convictions are more popular than his game. I can appreciate the frustration that comes with shining a spotlight on a decent, but not legendary player for his outspoken religious beliefs as opposed to giving that attention to one with more winning experience, but less faith.
My issue is when people say that Tebow has no business thanking God for his winning streak, because certainly God has better things to do than pay attention to a mindless football game. I know football isn't mentioned in the Bible, but how can people say that for sure? If God is a personal God (and I think he is) then wouldn't he care about the things that we care about? Wouldn't he be the one to whom players credit their athletic abilities, if God gives everyone unique talents and gifts?
The other issue to consider is whether God picks favorites...that somehow, the Denver Broncos are held in higher favor as opposed to any other team. Some people on my Facebook friends list have asked the question of what will happen to Tebow's faith now that the winning streak has ended. I am very impressed by his response:
"Sometimes I pray before games, during games, after games ... regardless whether I win or lose … whether [I'm] the hero or the goat, it doesn't matter, I still honor the Lord and give Him glory because He's deserving of it. Just like my faith shouldn't change, neither should that … You can still honor the Lord with how you handle things." (http://newsfeed.time.com/2012/01/15/patriots-stop-tim-tebow-why-he-will-be-missed/)
Not what most people would expect, is it? It shows a stark contrast between those who put their trust in God's sovereignty, knowing that his plans are not always our plans, and have the maturity to understand the difference...and those who treat God like a cosmic vending machine, a creator who waits on the beck and call of his created. It's not being self-righteous to say that God was with Tebow as he lead the Broncos to victory, but it's biblically inaccurate to suggest that God's favor is dependent on what we can do for him with our own flawed abilities, as opposed to what God already did for us.
We're a society who loves winners. Our loyalties sway with whoever is at the top of their game at a given time. If that team falters, we're quick to switch sides (Cleveland Browns/Cavs, anyone?). Does anyone ever take time to consider that some of our greatest "wins" come out of our most devastating losses?
And no, I'm not just referring to sports.
It may surprise some people to hear that I'm not an avid Tebow fan. But from what I hear of him, he seems very...genuine. He's one of the few outspoken Christians in the media today who seems to walk his talk, and has yet to be caught with a sex tape or some kind of ponzi scheme. For that, I can respect him. He's under so much pressure and so much scrutiny, yet he's barely a year older than I am and seems to be handling it well. For that, I can respect him.
But, when it comes down to it, Tim Tebow is a football player...and I really don't have much interest in football. There doesn't seem to be anything truly remarkable about his skills as a quarterback, from what I hear, which is why I'm sure so many people can't stand him -- because his personal convictions are more popular than his game. I can appreciate the frustration that comes with shining a spotlight on a decent, but not legendary player for his outspoken religious beliefs as opposed to giving that attention to one with more winning experience, but less faith.
My issue is when people say that Tebow has no business thanking God for his winning streak, because certainly God has better things to do than pay attention to a mindless football game. I know football isn't mentioned in the Bible, but how can people say that for sure? If God is a personal God (and I think he is) then wouldn't he care about the things that we care about? Wouldn't he be the one to whom players credit their athletic abilities, if God gives everyone unique talents and gifts?
The other issue to consider is whether God picks favorites...that somehow, the Denver Broncos are held in higher favor as opposed to any other team. Some people on my Facebook friends list have asked the question of what will happen to Tebow's faith now that the winning streak has ended. I am very impressed by his response:
"Sometimes I pray before games, during games, after games ... regardless whether I win or lose … whether [I'm] the hero or the goat, it doesn't matter, I still honor the Lord and give Him glory because He's deserving of it. Just like my faith shouldn't change, neither should that … You can still honor the Lord with how you handle things." (http://newsfeed.time.com/2012/01/15/patriots-stop-tim-tebow-why-he-will-be-missed/)
Not what most people would expect, is it? It shows a stark contrast between those who put their trust in God's sovereignty, knowing that his plans are not always our plans, and have the maturity to understand the difference...and those who treat God like a cosmic vending machine, a creator who waits on the beck and call of his created. It's not being self-righteous to say that God was with Tebow as he lead the Broncos to victory, but it's biblically inaccurate to suggest that God's favor is dependent on what we can do for him with our own flawed abilities, as opposed to what God already did for us.
We're a society who loves winners. Our loyalties sway with whoever is at the top of their game at a given time. If that team falters, we're quick to switch sides (Cleveland Browns/Cavs, anyone?). Does anyone ever take time to consider that some of our greatest "wins" come out of our most devastating losses?
And no, I'm not just referring to sports.
Friday, January 6, 2012
Author of the moment, do I end up happy?
Resolution #7: Never take any blessing for granted.
Even after everything I've learned this last year about pursuing joy in all circumstances, I'm still afraid to completely let go and be happy already. I'm afraid of feeling something that's real, and then having it slip away from me and end up being worse off than before. With happiness comes a certain vulnerability.
But then I think, what if I could let go just for today? My circumstances could change tomorrow, or even in the next hour...there is no guarantee that they won't. So what, exactly, am I waiting for?
I should be taking in all the good moments that I can. If I don't fully enjoy my life, then I am wasting it. What do I have to gain by being so paranoid? I find myself praying more for strength and perseverance through difficult times than simply praising God for everything amazing in my life.
So long as I keep reminding myself that everything I have is a gift, and not a right, I think I can remain balanced. I am not entitled by any means to a well-paying job, material possessions, a master's degree...I may have earned many things, but I am not defined by them. This is a world where I am summed up by a resume, personality, and appearance. If none of those things are indestructible -- and they aren't -- then clearly I need to seek happiness in something that is.
I'm always concerned that my lifestyle doesn't match the convictions I claim to live by. I always feel like I can do more. I beat myself up too much for things that aren't always my fault (or not 100% my fault, I should say). I just want...stability. But the more I pray for it, the more chaotic my life becomes.
With that I say to you, 2012...bring it. I can take whatever you can dish out and then some. Really :)
Even after everything I've learned this last year about pursuing joy in all circumstances, I'm still afraid to completely let go and be happy already. I'm afraid of feeling something that's real, and then having it slip away from me and end up being worse off than before. With happiness comes a certain vulnerability.
But then I think, what if I could let go just for today? My circumstances could change tomorrow, or even in the next hour...there is no guarantee that they won't. So what, exactly, am I waiting for?
I should be taking in all the good moments that I can. If I don't fully enjoy my life, then I am wasting it. What do I have to gain by being so paranoid? I find myself praying more for strength and perseverance through difficult times than simply praising God for everything amazing in my life.
So long as I keep reminding myself that everything I have is a gift, and not a right, I think I can remain balanced. I am not entitled by any means to a well-paying job, material possessions, a master's degree...I may have earned many things, but I am not defined by them. This is a world where I am summed up by a resume, personality, and appearance. If none of those things are indestructible -- and they aren't -- then clearly I need to seek happiness in something that is.
I'm always concerned that my lifestyle doesn't match the convictions I claim to live by. I always feel like I can do more. I beat myself up too much for things that aren't always my fault (or not 100% my fault, I should say). I just want...stability. But the more I pray for it, the more chaotic my life becomes.
With that I say to you, 2012...bring it. I can take whatever you can dish out and then some. Really :)
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Moving ahead, bold and confident
I'm not sorry to see 2011 go. I have officially dubbed it the Year of Insanity, and so far 2012 is turning out to be pretty good (okay, so it's only the third day of January, but I'm trying to be optimistic). I've got a volunteer position at a crisis center in Kent, and I'm actually really excited about it (does that sound morbid?). I don't have any rose-colored visions about what it will be like...I know it's painful work, and it will take a strong person to hear others' tragic stories and not have their hearts shatter into smithereens. I consider this like a 'sneak preview' of what my eventual career will be like...and if I discover that I can't handle it, well, I have plenty of time to change my plans if absolutely necessary.
Looking back is unwise, but nostalgia isn't necessarily a bad thing. This time last year, I was so sick I could barely talk...it broke my heart to realize that the city of Paris hated me after making me violently ill for the second time. Not how I imagined starting my final semester of senior year.
And then began a chain of events where I was tragically depressed, survived a summer of spiritual bootcamp in Colorado and had my heart broken again (but in a different way this time), got a little bit of hope back...and I realized my calling was to start a ministry to counsel abused women. I got three tattoos (probably as rebellious as I'll ever get). I got accepted to a graduate school...but only God knows where I'll really end up.
And finally, I met a boy who makes me smile every day...never in a million years saw that coming. I feel so undeservingly blessed.
Anyway, on to my list of New Year's resolutions (ones I actually intend to keep this time!):
1. Read about the life of a saint every day.
I found one of those yearly devotional books at Last Exit for only 4 bucks. It was so meant to be on my bookshelf :)
2. Write more letters!
I'm bringing old fashioned handwritten communication back. Facebook is convenient, but nothing says "I was thinking of you" like a personalized letter or greeting card (and no, I don't mean the ones with cutesy sayings inside, where all I do is sign my name at the bottom. That's cheating!).
3. Start a movie collection.
I've always been more of a book nerd, and the only movies I've owned before this year are VHS, which really saddens me because I remember saving up my babysitting money to buy my own VCR and it still works just fine...I boycotted the DVD movement for a while, but since it's here to stay, I'm giving in.
4. Choose a grad school
...and with that, my first apartment (with wall-to-wall bookshelves, of course). Maybe, if I have any money left over, I'll splurge on a rabbit or a guinea pig.
5. Completely clean out my closet of all the clothes I never wear and give them to charity.
I don't want to be one of those girls with constant "So many clothes but nothing to wear" syndrome. I actually get overwhelmed if I have too much "stuff" that never gets worn, or used.
6. Finish my book!
As for getting it published...well, maybe that will be next year's resolution :)
That's all I've got for now, but I'll probably come up with more later.
Looking back is unwise, but nostalgia isn't necessarily a bad thing. This time last year, I was so sick I could barely talk...it broke my heart to realize that the city of Paris hated me after making me violently ill for the second time. Not how I imagined starting my final semester of senior year.
And then began a chain of events where I was tragically depressed, survived a summer of spiritual bootcamp in Colorado and had my heart broken again (but in a different way this time), got a little bit of hope back...and I realized my calling was to start a ministry to counsel abused women. I got three tattoos (probably as rebellious as I'll ever get). I got accepted to a graduate school...but only God knows where I'll really end up.
And finally, I met a boy who makes me smile every day...never in a million years saw that coming. I feel so undeservingly blessed.
Anyway, on to my list of New Year's resolutions (ones I actually intend to keep this time!):
1. Read about the life of a saint every day.
I found one of those yearly devotional books at Last Exit for only 4 bucks. It was so meant to be on my bookshelf :)
2. Write more letters!
I'm bringing old fashioned handwritten communication back. Facebook is convenient, but nothing says "I was thinking of you" like a personalized letter or greeting card (and no, I don't mean the ones with cutesy sayings inside, where all I do is sign my name at the bottom. That's cheating!).
3. Start a movie collection.
I've always been more of a book nerd, and the only movies I've owned before this year are VHS, which really saddens me because I remember saving up my babysitting money to buy my own VCR and it still works just fine...I boycotted the DVD movement for a while, but since it's here to stay, I'm giving in.
4. Choose a grad school
...and with that, my first apartment (with wall-to-wall bookshelves, of course). Maybe, if I have any money left over, I'll splurge on a rabbit or a guinea pig.
5. Completely clean out my closet of all the clothes I never wear and give them to charity.
I don't want to be one of those girls with constant "So many clothes but nothing to wear" syndrome. I actually get overwhelmed if I have too much "stuff" that never gets worn, or used.
6. Finish my book!
As for getting it published...well, maybe that will be next year's resolution :)
That's all I've got for now, but I'll probably come up with more later.
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