Belleville News-Democrat

Thankful for Michaels

Imagine if I were a child in the womb, lovingly crafted and cradled by God and if, for some reason, my mother didn't want me, either through ignorance or fear or pressure from those who think I'd be too much trouble. As I listened to my mother's quickening heartbeat as she walked to her appointment at the Granite City abortion clinic, I might wonder, as she waited in line for those who would so greedily end my life, if I'd hear anyone else.

Perhaps I'd hear the pleadings of the local pastors and priests. But no, they didn't come. Perhaps, as my mother edged ever closer to the door, I'd hear the mournful beckonings of the local Christian congregations. But no, they stayed away, too.

But what I might hear, just barely, coming from the sidewalk by the street, would be the compassionate voice of Christ as spoken through a loving couple and their children.

Oh, I wouldn't know of their troubles. How they've been maligned and slandered. How they've been targeted and ticketed. How they've been assaulted and sued, all the while suffering from the bitter lack known only to those who understand the true meaning of sacrifice.

But, as my mother began to gently quake and weep as she turned to hear and as she slowly walked across the parking lot into the arms of those who know that genuine love must be shown, I would know this: I'm alive and, like thousands before me, it is due to the efforts of Angela and Daniel Michael and their dear children.

Someday heaven will reveal all they've done on behalf of the unborn. But for now, I simply say, "God bless them."