On June 24, 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the infamous 1973 Roe V. Wade decision with the ruling of Dobbs vs. Jackson’s Women Health Organization. Pro-life supporters cheered and celebrated as they witnessed the nationwide legalization of abortion being revoked. With the responsibility of abortion laws now in the hands of individual states, many anticipated a significant decline in the number of abortions.
Unfortunately, this expectation has not been met. In fact, since the Dobbs’ case ruling, there has been an increase in the number of abortions. What can we learn from this?
Abortion will only cease when hearts and minds change. As long as the prevailing message suggests that abortion is the solution to the challenges faced by women, we will continue to witness the tragic loss of life. Regardless of legal frameworks, if society fails to value life at all stages, people will find a way to have an abortion.
The most common reasons for women choosing abortion include:
- Financial pressures
- Poor timing
- Relationship issues
- Interference with caring for other children
- Emotional unpreparedness
Abortion falsely promises to provide answers and a better life for women. However in reality, it does not alleviate financial stress, remove responsibilities, or resolve relationship problems. The stress of caring for children remains. Emotional overwhelm persists. Abortion does not eliminate problems; it adds to them.
You can read about the devastating effects of abortion on women HERE.
Instead of weakening women and reinforcing the idea that they are not strong enough to carry a child, what if we empowered them? What if we called out the superhero in them? Superheroes emerge when they make the courageous choice to save lives … to save the life of their baby.
Our society is captivated by superhero stories. We are moved by tales of humanity stepping in to save lives, help others and improve lives. Why is this not the message we hear when it comes to unwanted pregnancies?
I once spoke with two different women who found themselves facing unwanted pregnancies and significant obstacles. One chose abortion, while the other chose life for her baby. As I stayed in touch with both women, it became evident that, although their circumstances remained unchanged, their results were vastly different. The woman who chose abortion rarely went a day without tears. Conversely, the woman who chose life stated that having the baby was the best thing that had ever happened to her.
Women possess strength beyond what our culture acknowledges. Rather than perpetuating the notion that they are weak and incapable of having a child, let’s recognize the superhero within them. Let’s offer support and witness their ability to rise to the challenge, even surprising themselves as they move forward with strength and power.
