Not So Slow To Anger

            Due to the recent events in Texas (I looked for an explanatory link but all coverage was steeped in bias, I recommend googling Wendy Davis Filibuster and reading for yourselves if you are unfamiliar) the issue of right to life VS “reproductive rights” has been popping up in my social media much more frequently and with more emotion than usual.  Consequently, the space in my mind has been taken up with the right to life more than usual.  Unfortunately, my initial reaction to many things I have seen friends and strangers posting in favor of abortion rights has been anger. 

            I think that my anger comes from a certain amount of helplessness I feel.  I feel like a piece of my innocence is taken away with every victory for the pro-choice movement; it is a huge blow to realize that the good guy doesn't always win and bad things do happen to innocent people.  However, I have realized that anger is completely the wrong reaction.  Luckily, I have not lashed out or attacked anyone from the pro-choice side of the argument because I know that is something I would surely regret.  I think that approaching controversial topics (or any argument) with anger is a surefire way to lose. 

            When you approach an argument in anger you immediately put the opposition on defense.  It is impossible to change the mind of a person you attack with insults.  Have you ever heard anyone say, “wow, I never thought of it that way until you cussed me out and yelled names at me.” No, you haven’t.  Especially in such an emotionally charged issue as pro-life VS pro-choice.

            So, I have come up with a new plan; I am praying for every person whose pro-choice comments make me angry or just plain hurt my heart.  I don’t want to just be right and win an argument, that isn't what this is about.  I want to change minds and hearts; I want to save lives.  Through the past few years I have found that praying for others blesses you.  When I choose to put someone else’s best interest in my heart I am given blessings in my own life.  I am not saying to go around replying to comments with “I’m praying for your eternally damned soul.”  First of all, only God knows the destination of our souls.  Second of all, probably not the best way to win people over.  I am suggesting that instead of festering or lashing out in anger we do something that can honestly make a difference. 

            If we are being honest about our dedication to the dignity of every person than we have to treat every person with dignity (even those who disagree with us).  Even as I type that sentence I realize that I fail to do this on so many levels everyday.  So let’s not fight, let’s show what Pro-life really stands for.  Let’s choose to see Christ in the people we encounter and pray for the parts of them that are lacking Christ.

            What are your thoughts on Wendy Davis?  How do you respond to comments, statuses, tweets, and articles you disagree with?  How can we more effectively grow the Pro-Life movement? PS. Save The Storks retweeted me last week, nbd.  Comments? Questions? Suggestions? Drop me a line in the comments below!