More involved in 'life' issues
by Carmen Shelly, Lenexa, Kan.
The editorial "Don't Abort the Truth" (June 2) illuminates some of the delicate issues surrounding pro-choice/pro-life and Mennonite theology. However, it fails to bring the truth to "full-term." Much more is involved in the "life" issue than death.
Pro-life must mean much more than antiabortion, antiwar and anti-death penalty. Pro-life should mean pro- "stuff," as well. Pro-life should mean pro-health care so that mothers and their children and unborn children have a reasonable quality of life. Pro-life should mean pro-welfare so that a family making the choice to bring a child to term can support that child with food, clothes, shelter and parental time. Pro-life should mean pro-education so that children can gain a foundation to be productive citizens.
In reality, pro-life often advocates one more negation: anti-taxation. Many pro-life political candidates sign pledges not to increase taxes. Yet bringing children into the world has a cost to society above the cost to the parents. When I see pro-life rallies, I want to stop and ask, "Are you willing to pay for the well-being of the children you hope to save?"
Please put your money where your words are. Support children beyond the womb. Bring the truth to full-term. Following the pro-life stance to its logical conclusion raises the issue of access to basic services for parents and children. In the end, pro-life should mean pro-justice, another issue in which the Mennonite church can be a leader.
Associated Issue: Thoughts on Abortion - June 2, 2009
Associated Article: Don't abort the truth
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