+ I get lots of meaningful responses to my “Today’s Thoughts”, and I really appreciate that you read them and take them to heart. This past week I got one such response to what I wrote about empathy that I found to be very poignant, and I am using it (with permission) today. Please read it. +
I know women who have had an abortion. They never took the decision lightly. They never took their decision as a convenience. They never forgot that decision. They will remember it forever. They will remember the moment they decided to have the abortion and the moment they realized the procedure was over and final. It will color their lives forever.
I know women who have had an abortion. I still love them. If the subject comes up, I offer them understanding. I listen to whatever they wish to share, and I hope that they know how much I support and cherish them.
I know women who have had an abortion. Does it matter if they vote left or right? Does it matter if they go to church or not? Does it matter their age or ethnicity? These women have made the hardest decision anyone will ever have to make. Empathy requires understanding and love. Are we so corrupted to the notions of understanding and love for humanity that we cannot hold someone close and comfort them through the hardest time in their lives?
I know women who have had an abortion. It is not our job to criticize them. It is our job to help them find peace and strength. It is our job to help them through the difficult decisions that come after this event. It is our job to offer a shoulder and a hug. It is our job to offer Empathy- as you defined it in your thought for the day.
I know women who have had an abortion.
Thanks for listening to my thought for the day that was scratched open by your thought for the day.
Prayer – Holy God, may empathy arise in our hearts as we share our faith with each other and find common ground as we live this beautiful life together. Amen.
Today’s art is called “Empathy 2” by Helena Wierzbicki.