RIGHT TO LIFE

Respect for Life month has been formally celebrated since 1972 in the United States but the issue of Life is foundational to our country. Respect for Life refers to the respect and protection from the moment of conception. From that moment of existence that child is recognized as having the rights of a person. Respect for life is a tenet embedded in the fabric of the US since its inception. The founding fathers stated this clearly in the Declaration of Independance to which the unalienable rights of Life, Liberty and the pursuit of happiness are afforded to each individual. The explicit protection of Life and Liberty are elaborated further in our constitution. This important right should be top of list for all true patriots.

It’s sad that the importance of Life has been reduced to a month of awareness though not surprising. The issue of life has fallen victim to many attacks in this PC world we live in. It’s become a virtual hot potato in debate because of many sidetracking points such as, religious objections, separation of church and state, politics, lobby groups and choice to name a few. It seems the founding fathers did all the heavy lifting so to speak when they crafted the declaration when they stated the basic and essential questions regarding human life: what is it? Where does it come from? And why is it sacred?

I encourage you to ponder the definition of life: how it came to be a foundational pillar to a unique and great country and how we have come to the crisis of respect for it today. What better way to celebrate this month than to grow your understanding of life and the gift it is. Happy Respect for Life month.

Melissa Mitchell, Kane County voter