Forgive me, for the opinions I am about to write about are controversial among a variety of different people. Understand that despite my view of these topics, I have understood and continue to gain a greater understanding of the many different stances that can be taken on these subjects. I can be stubborn, but I’m open-minded…..
As it pertains to opinion in politics, the abortion issue particularly, I am pro choice. Where I'm from, this idea is extremely common (and often acted upon). Having been a member of the church my whole life, people often question why it is I am pro choice versus being pro life. Allow me to explain. I am NOT a supporter of abortion. I would never suggest nor participate in the act of abortion, but it is not something I am to judge. We have been raised our whole lives to come to appreciate and respectfully use the gift of agency. It is inevitable that there will be those in this world that abuse that gift, but it is not up to us to prevent them from using their agency in that way anyways. Understand that I am not not pro life (if that makes sense) but I am pro agency and therefore I am for a woman’s right to choose, even if that choice is consequently the ‘wrong one’. But that’s just it, I am not capable of of defining what is 'wrong' and what is 'right' simply based upon my own beliefs. I can’t tell anyone else what they should believe and I recognize that. This opinion of mine stems from the ideas and beliefs of my parents as well as those I have developed of my own accord over the years. I understand why there are many who are pro life. The life of a child, unborn or otherwise, is very special. It too is a gift that should be protected. It is a very noble thing for those who end up with unexpected pregnancies to raise these blessings, but it isn’t always a concept that is easy for people to understand. In my mind, it always comes back to the choices we make. For this reason, I have take the stance that I have.
Another issue that I know is often addressed and discussed here at BYU is that of what is considered a reasonable age to get married. I grew up in the east coast where being 35 years old and single is not an uncommon or uncomfortable idea. Having been surrounded by that way of thinking and living I came to BYU amazed that so many people get married so young. Growing up I always told myself I would be graduated from college before I even thought about getting married and believed everyone was wise to do the same. It had been in my experience that people I had met (college age people) were still too immature and unprepared to be married. I do have to say however, that after having been at BYU for the last 6 months, I have come to a different opinion on the topic. I still think that the ages of 18-24 are still young to get married, but I do believe that one of the special things that comes from being raised in the church is a unique maturity and preparedness for marriage. People get married all the time here at BYU and they live happy, complete lives with one another. I suppose, looking at the last opinion I wrote about, its hypocritical of me to judge the choices people here at BYU make pertaining to marriage but I have changed my views. People here seem to make it work and all I have to say at this point is good for them!
It was really great to read your point of view on this highly debatable subject. I completely understand where you are coming from on pro-choice because we are given agency. However, I am still pro-life. Let me explain why. Yes, women think they should have the choice to have an abortion or not but they also had the choice to have sex. I believe that if they chose to have sex they should accept whatever consequences come with it. Being in anatomy this semester has only made my belief for pro-life stronger because I have physically held baby cadavers that are one inch long. They have all of their bones, hair, organs, nails, and toes which are all so distinct at even that small size. Thinking that someone is taking away this life is so sad to me. I believe that a baby shouldn't have its life taken away because of the "wrong" choice a mother made.
ReplyDeleteAnyways, I do what you to know I understand where you are coming from and it is always good to hear the opposing view!
McKaylee I just love you haha. Don't take this the wrong way, bear with me through this comment. Somehow, while disagreeing with a lot of the things you said in this post, I still totally respect your opinion and like you even more for keeping a firm yet diplomatic stance. That is a rare gift that not many people have! I think that's what makes you such a good writer.
ReplyDeleteAbout the abortion, I think you're completely right with the agency thing. However, I also agree with Mykenna that the women also CHOSE to have sex in most cases. Abortion is not a get out of jail free card. I firmly believe in living with consequences of decisions, good or bad. If a woman doesn't want a baby, there are plenty of people out their who would want it! That's where I stand. :) Enjoyed your post!
I really liked how you approached these issues. These are very controversial topics and I feel that you stated your opinion very effectively without neglecting the other side. Great post.
ReplyDeleteI understand and respect your opinion towards being pro-choice in relation to the idea that it allows people to exercise their agency. However, my opinion constitutes that of the Church's, that an abortion should only take place in unusual circumstances as outlined by the Church. As someone who wants to become a neonatal doctor, it cuts me to the core to think that a living and developing embryo is being denied a chance at life, because a woman does not want the baby. When the woman chose to have sex, she exercised her agency. If she was denied that choice, or if her life is threatened, then she is justified to consider an abortion. Even in these circumstances, I believe that abortion should be carefully thought about and prayerfully considered.
ReplyDeleteThanks for expressing a controversial issue and not being afraid of the controversy surrounding it. You utilize ethos well as you acknowledge counterarguments and you did a great job of expressing something that many disagreed with, but doing it respectfully, and not alienating your audience. I also like that you gave an example of a strong opinion you have about marriage, but how that opinion has somewhat changed based on new experiences. You are very thorough and insightful when it comes to expressing your biases and why you have them. This is a great skill that will take you far in life.
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