Question: Should the government limit abortion to those dire circumstances described above and, for all other circumstances, force the woman to remain pregnant and bear a child against her will?
I think that a healthy woman carrying a healthy baby should be made to bear her child. To me, once a baby is conceived, it becomes potential life. I think the baby should be considered 'living' after 26 weeks or so, because it is capable of surviving outside of the womb at that period.
Anyhow, back to potential life. Pam Stenzel is one of the leading sex-ed speakers for teens today. She travels around the country giving talks to schools and the like. I have been priveledged enough to see her, and can attest that she is one of the most moving and interesting speakers I have ever seen. She really knows how to get through to kids. One story that she tells during her presentation, is that of her conception and birth. She was conceived through rape. She tells of how her mother wanted to abort her, and even set up an appointment, but that she backed out at the last moment, and decided to carry her child to term and then put her up for adoption.
All I could think of after I heard this story, was
what would things be like if Pam had been aborted?? Pam has helped so many kids all over the country and preaches a very important and inspiring message. How would things be different if she had never been given a chance?
I encourage you to check out her website
www.pamstenzel.com . I would also encourage you to try and get ahold of one of her videos--not because I think you need sex-ed, but so that you can see what an absolutely moving speaker she is.
Pam is but one example, but this is what crosses my mind in response to your question. I believe that human life is sacred. I believe that once a child is conceived, the mother owes full responsibility to it's safety and well-being. I believe that every healthy fetus has the potential of becoming a healthy baby and then a healthy contributing member of society. How many future presidents have been aborted already? Do you see what I'm saying here?
I just think that a baby is too important to be labeled as a mere choice. I think women treat abortion as they would a decision of whether or not to get plastic surgery or something.
I also think it would be a good idea for the state to set up special programs to help unwanting mothers get back on their feet after they've had their baby and put it up for adoption, or kept it themselves. I understand how life-altering an unwanted baby can be, and with help like that, women wouldn't be desiring abortion because they see no hope in the future.