By Charlotte Pence Bond
In our current intense political climate, it’s easy to place abortion in the world of politics and leave it there. Political “wins” and “losses” can often be the most discussed areas of the pro-life cause. While it’s important to focus on the political side of abortion and be informed about state and federal legislation, as well as any court cases that threaten the sanctity of human life in America, pro-life activists should be careful to remember that abortion is ultimately a moral issue. It is an issue of the heart, forever impacting men, women, and children.
Abortion is Deeply Personal
Not only is abortion a moral issue, but it is a profoundly personal one. In a 2022 Pew Research Center study, more than half of Americans had a personal connection to abortion – either they knew someone who had one, or they had done so themselves. It seems that people often accept abortion because they are defending someone they love or they feel the need to defend the actions they made at a difficult time. As we remember that abortion is a moral issue, we must also not forget the real people behind the decision to get an abortion. While many women regret their abortions, still others may never admit their regret and find healing because they want to have grace for who they were in the past – and because it may be too difficult to accept their tragic mistakes. The pro-life movement can support and love women who had abortions in the past while also encouraging women who are currently pregnant and are afraid of what life may hold for them if they have a baby. When we empathize with the human being faced with an unplanned pregnancy, we will be able to help them choose life.
The Cultural Shift: Why Motherhood is Undervalued
Abortion is not only prevalent in our society because of political legislation but also because of how abortion is celebrated and motherhood is denigrated. Motherhood is a beautiful and lifelong commitment, but today, women are told time and time again that they should fear motherhood. Not only are women impacted by this message, but their children are also. It is inevitable that how a woman views herself when she becomes a mother will trickle down into the views of her children about themselves. This shift should be celebrated, but all too often, young women are afraid to become mothers because of how it has been portrayed to them.
The Unbreakable Bond Between Mother and Child
For thousands of years, people have recognized the unique attachment of a mother and child that can never be broken – not even through abortion. As many mothers can attest, even when a child is outside her body, there is still a connection between them. Abortion will no longer be a desirable option if mothers are once again appreciated and admired in our society.
Encouraging a Culture of Life
We must speak the truth about motherhood as we seek to help the women who have had abortions or who are considering one. If more women are encouraged to become mothers and see the value of motherhood, abortion will be a tragedy of the past. I believe that one day, history will see abortion as one of the most egregious things of our time – not only for taking the life of a child but for the disregard for its impact on a mother’s heart.
This February, as we celebrate the month of love, let us remember that abortion does not only exist in the world of politics. It starts and ends with the personal lives and decisions of individuals. It is an issue of the heart.
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