intersection

This is the fourth or fifth time I’ve participated in the 40 Days for Life Campaign (February 22 to April 1). A few tips and observations:

1. You will cry each time you see someone come out after she has had an abortion—her face is always stunned and slightly disbelieving.
2. Prayer softens the heart (and by that, I mean my heart).
3. Being a witness is much easier than being a martyr.
4. Always wear comfortable shoes.
5. Women who shout nasty things as they drive by are in intense pain.
6. Men who shout nasty things as they drive by are in intense pain or so cowed by the culture that they think they’re “standing up for women’s rights.”
7. Always dress warmer than you think you need to (after all, you’re going to be standing outside for a while).
8. Saying three rosaries takes me about an hour (I always try to start with the Sorrowful Mysteries and end with the Glorious Mysteries, and in-between is anyone’s guess).
9. You may not see anything change while you’re praying, and that’s okay—God honors your prayers.
10. Pray with a joyful heart even though you’re in a sad place (and yes, abortion clinics have a certain something about them)–you are praying for Life.