My chosen topic was abortion, and I stand pro-life. I wouldn't kill a person out of the womb if they were a result of a rape, if they have a disability, if they were a mistake, if the life of the mother was risked, and I wouldn't do the same for a person in the womb. The moment the egg is fertilized and there is life, that life has a name—human—and killing a human is wrong (according to my morals and beliefs, as well as according to federal law). As a Christian I have many more reasons to believe that giving life is more important than giving a woman the choice over another, choiceless, human, God’s sovereign plan and the value of human life just to mention a couple. Through this research and debate I have learned more about the different sides to the argument, as well as my own opinion on the matter as I was forced to really think about it more. For instance, before this, having not spent a great deal of time on the subject, I wasn't quite sure about my opinion regarding abortion in cases where the mother’s life is threatened—now I've come to a clearer decision on where I stand. Also, the structured explanation of your opinion on this issue helped me to become better informed on the reasoning that helps build the solid base for this opinion, parts of which I hadn't realized before.
My response can possibly help break down animosity through realizing the different motivations and understandings that people have of this issue, and through this awareness become better equipped to show others love in this discussion, while still holding true to my beliefs with sound, informed arguments. People are more open to listening and to hearing the other side when an argument is shared well, logically, and addresses their own questions and arguments, and doing that will help to break down barriers and create a better relationship.
I think I already addressed parts of the fourth question in my answer above, but ways to further show love to our neighbors is to be willing to listen, to hear their stories, share their pain, and understand their perspective. Only in this way will we gain the trust, love, and respect that is necessary to bridge the gap and share opinions on challenging matters such as this one. Abortion is a very personal topic in some senses because it often is a personal experience or choice, and the only way to combat and deal with it is through personal relationships. As a result of this research, debate, and reflection I am more aware of this issue and how it affects the people around me and society as a whole, encouraging me to focus more on loving my neighbors—because who knows what they are going through. Who knows, maybe single word can save a life.
You probably don't even realize how sad I am that this class is coming to a close; through it I have experienced, learned, and grown so much. Thank you once again for this intriguing, fascinating, challenging, and incredibly enjoyable year of Sociology, it is by far the best class I've ever taken from the best of teachers!
