Advice Column: Dear Rose

Dear Rose,     I read the letter from the 16-year-old pregnant girl. I couldn’t get her off my mind all weekend and my heart really went out to her. I can understand both sides. But I want her to know that I am very proud of her, for NOT having an abortion, and NOT abandoning her baby. I also want to tell you Rose that I think you gave her some great advice. There are so many women that can’t have children of their own, who would give anything to have children. I speak from experience. My husband and I can’t have children of our own. We’ve been married for 14 years. We have 5 nephews and 1 niece whom we adore. I have my Sunday school class (that I love with all my heart), but it doesn’t feel the void. We have checked into several different adoption agencies, and foster care. It would be too hard to let go of a foster child. I mainly wanted to let the young lady know I am so proud of her for the decision she made.  Wants a baby in Sevierville Dear Wants, It was very kind of you to write. Maybe you know that Knoxville has more abortion clinics than any other city in Tennessee. Bethany Christian Services in Knoxville took a survey and found that most girls in East Tennessee consider abortion less of a failure than adoption. Why? Because they think that they are abandoning their baby if they give it up for adoption. Hopefully, someone will see this and realize that to give their child up for adoption is the kindest thing they can do if they cannot take proper care of the child themselves. It is saying, “I want good for this child.” Adoptive children are usually loved, well cared for, and many have wonderful economic advantages also. Let me take a minute to recognize the real pain of those women who have not been able to conceive. Dr. James Dobson has recommended a wonderful book called “When the Cradle Is Empty- Answering Tough Questions About Infertility,” by John and Sylvia Van Regenmorter and “Empty Womb, Aching Heart” by Marlo Schalesky. Dobson’s website: www.family.org has many wonderful resources available for those who may struggle with infertility. Remember Hannah. If you have any questions that you would like to ask, “Dear Rose” please write to The Herald Newspapers, 500 Maryville Hwy, Seymour, TN 37865 or email at askrose@theheraldnewspapers.com.