Writing Real Good
Once years ago I saw a letter to the editor that really stirred me up. The title was "Pro-lifers should put up their money. "The writer said (in part), "Pro-choice people espouse the virtues of a woman's right to choose. Pro-life advocates march back and forth in front of clinics carying signs calling people murderers or citing religious scripture. . . .but I find it most interesting that I have never seen one sign reading, 'if you will carry the child to term, I will adopt it, clothe it, fee it, give it an education. . .' [Pro-lifers should] be willing to make that kind of commitment. Back in the old days, we called it putting your money where your mouth is."
I have to admit, I was angry. After all, I and a lot of other volunteers worked really hard at the local crisis pregnancy center to help women facing unwanted pregnancies. But I knew anger
would only alienate not convince and that a “ A gentle answer turns away wrath. ("Proverbs 15:1) And so here's how I responded:
"Mr. ****" is right when he says a pro-lifer should put his money where his mouth is. Mr. ****is certainly not the first to point out the hypocrisy of shouting "don't abort!" but not being willing to care for the thousands of unwanted or unplanned children. Pro-lifers haven't lacked the desire to help, but. . .we haven't always known how.
"But after Roe vs. Wad, caring pro-lifers began opening crisis pregnancy centers all across this country to meet the real needs of unplanned pregnancy. Mr. *** will be surprised to know that our town now has its own. The Arms of Love Crisis Pregnancy Center in Godfrey opened in January 1195. Director **** and her trained volunteers lovingly support clients with maternity clothes, baby clothes, baby supplies, and formula, all provided by generous supporters. The center refers for adoption, medical care, and financial help and provides on-going education for its clients. Hundreds have been assisted and at least 13 priceless babies have been born so far because their moms found it a lot easier to choose life.
"Saturday, Sept. 23, supporters will walk in the second annual Hike-For-Like at Gordon Moore Park to raise money for the center. Call the center for a hike pledge sheet so you can also put your money where your mouth is."
Amazingly, Mr. **** showed up at the Center a few days later. I only worked occasionally at the Center, but God worked it out that I was the one to answer the door when he knocked that day. When he introduced himself, my heart lurched a little in fear. What if he was angry about my article? But instead, he smiled and said, "You're right and I was wrong." and handed me a check for the Center for $100. Ah, power of the pen to write real good!
Write Brain Activity
1. The second half of Proverbs 15:1 is, "but a harsh word stirs up anger.” What damage could have been done if I had answered Mr. *** in anger?
2. Give an example of a time your writing skills were used for good.
3. Tell about a time when you were able (or not) to turn away anger with a gentle/respectful answer.
