BRISTOL'S BABY
How many times have you sat with a brokenhearted couple who had just learned that their daughter was pregnant? I would imagine most of you have.
Dr. Dobson made a statement recently following the media reports of Bristol Palin's announcement that she was five months along. He said, "In the 32-year history of Focus on the Family, we have offered prayer, counseling and resource assistance to thousands of parents and children in the same situation the Palins are now facing."
In other words, these kinds of things happen in the best of times to well-meaning families and, when it does, we must just deal with it. Dick Morris, the political commentator, writes, "They're the kind of family issues that bedevil many American women." It may be, as you read these words, that you remember your single mom raising and loving you. Most likely, however, your situation was not played out in the media. Most are not.
What did I say to those parents who sat before me? Love them! Deal with the shock from the news, and then begin the process — whatever that is — toward normalcy. Naturally, there will be consequences. Tempers will flare. Some situations will be uncomfortable. Plans will need to change and for most, life will be changed for all time. Be patient — things will be chaotic enough without loud voices and unflattering comments. Pray a lot — a sin has been committed. Forgiveness is a major step to healing and God's guidance is so important. Plan ahead — does adoption make sense? Is the child ready to be a mother? If the "to be" grandparents will become the caregivers, do they understand the challenge? Don't hide — stuff happens. Life goes on. Hold your head high. Don't make a lot of excuses. Find out about continuing in school. Find a reputable counselor, and stay in church. Look for support. Some of the most wonderful people I know are those that serve their communities through a Pregnancy Resource Center. They provide counseling, clothes, comfort, and in many cases ultrasound services, and post-pregnancy support. If you have a young lady in your church that is with child, and you have not used the services of these groups, you are missing a marvelous opportunity. Check your yellow pages — or call us at Focus on the Family (1-800-A-FAMILY; 1-800-632-6459) — for a Pregnancy Resource Center in your area. I promise you, it is like having an additional staff member available to you. So ...
Love them!! Be patient!! Pray a lot!! Plan ahead!! Don't hide!!
To the woman caught in adultery Jesus said, "... neither do I condemn you. Go now and leave your life of sin" (Jn. 8:11).
Be blessed and be a blessing. —HBL
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2 comments:
Think it's time you changed your header to a picture of Waseca instead of St. Paul. Just sayin'...
Yeah, I know it needs changing. It is a two fold problem with me not having any good photos of Waseca (save for my church) and the secondary issue of my not having had the time to go take any pictures since we've only been here for a week. I have a couple of photos in my camera of a sunrise over the lake, which might end up in the header when I get the time to do some editing.
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