Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Reflecting on the sanctity of human life

Forty-one years have passed since the landmark Supreme Court rulings that changed our nation's response to pregnancy. Forty-one years and the words Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton still darken the hearts of all who defend the right to life.

Because of Roe and Doe abortion is legal through all nine months of pregnancy.  Because of Roe and Doe some do not have the right to live and breathe and grow and laugh and love. Because of Roe and Doe hundreds of thousands of people will peacefully march on January 22, in Washington, D.C., to be a prolife witness, protesting the so-called right to abortion.

Right to Life of Michigan President Barbara Listing said, "After 41 years we are still here, still ready to march and defend the lives of babies preparing to be born. Positive changes are being made in Michigan, the prolife movement is thriving, but our life-saving work continues because there is a need to value human life."

According to the Michigan Department of Community Health, a total of 23,230 induced abortions were reported in 2012. This is a 52.7 percent decrease since 1987-the year when the largest number of induced abortions was reported.

Listing said, "We celebrate the decrease in abortions performed in Michigan and mourn the lives lost. Abortions represent a void in our communities. This reality leaves many heartbroken. Abortion hurts women, babies and families."

To think that an abortion only impacts a mother and her child preparing to be born removes the genuine pain family members experience when abortion touches their lives. That is why Right to Life of Michigan is made up of local prolife groups in the cause of protecting life.  As communities pulling together, prolife people join to offer real options to women facing untimely pregnancies.

Listing said, "I am honored to represent Right to Life of Michigan. We are people who acknowledge that human life is precious and irreplaceable. The values we embrace lead us to reject the taking of human life to resolve the challenges of life itself. The memorial of Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton give us an opportunity to reflect on the sanctity of human life."

If you or someone you know is experiencing an unplanned or crisis pregnancy or would like information about help after an abortion, options are available. For help, please call 1-800-57 WOMAN (1-800-579 6626). Or, visit RTL.org  for a comprehensive listing of pregnancy centers and counseling agencies in Michigan. Assistance is free and confidential.