Dear Daughters,

Dad and I went to see the film Unplanned yesterday.  I read Abby Johnson’s book by the same name when it came out in 2010 and was fascinated with her story, so was pleased when I heard it was coming out on the big screen. 

Abby had been working at a Planned Parenthood Clinic for 8 years, first as a volunteer escort, then working her way up to become the Director of her clinic in Texas – becoming the youngest clinic director in Planned Parenthood history.  She was good at her job, managing the clinic orderly and efficiently and truly believed she was helping women in a time of need.  However, she had never been in an actual procedure room during an abortion.  Although she herself had two abortions when younger, she had never seen an ultrasound picture during a procedure.  But when she was asked to assist the doctor and visually seeing the reaction of the unborn baby on the screen while being suctioned, her eyes were opened to the reality of what she was promoting.

Amazingly, her husband and parents were never in agreement with her choice of a career, but continued to love and pray for her. 

Shortly before she decided to leave her job, she had come home from work with blood on her shoes.  Her daughter who was five at the time, asked why.  Abby replied, Oh, a lady at work had a bloody nose, so I had to help her with it.

The question of a young child, and the lie that was used to cover it up, became a small part of the choice she made to leave the clinic. 

Although Dad and I had planned to eat at our favorite restaurant after the movie, our plans changed.  I became nauseous and had no appetite when the movie was over.  Issues which seem to be purely political become much more personal when stories like Unplanned are told.  It was a beautiful story of redemption in Abby’s life, yet has angered many people who don’t agree with her choice for life.

I applaud Abby for telling her story, even though she knew it would make her an enemy of many who don’t want it to be told. 

After the movie, we chatted with the couple who was sitting next to us as the theatre was clearing out.  They were probably about our age, she having to use two canes to help her walk.  She told us that she had volunteered at the local crisis pregnancy center for 15 years and loved working there.  Although she has the desire to continue to work, she is unable because of her difficulty of walking.  I admire her for her willingness to be an encouragement to many young women.

I was reminded yesterday of a verse reminding me that God is pro-choice. In Deuteronomy 30:19 Moses writes:

This day… I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live….

It was a good evening out, but emotionally exhausting for me.  I hope you are able to watch it sometime as well.

Love, Mom