Power of Compassion

Here's a great letter from a female voter to Jay Nordlinger at The Corner on National Review Online after watching Sarah Palin's speech Wednesday night.

Dear Jay,

I have an out-of-wedlock child. Unfortunately, the father of my son did not step up to the plate, as Levi seems to be doing. All but one member of my family were so ashamed of my situation that they ignored me for the entirety of my pregnancy and during the first few months of my son’s life.

I found acceptance and comfort where I never expected it. I’m not a particularly religious person, and at the time I attended a Baptist church only occasionally. But the members of this church took it upon themselves to take care of me. By “taking care of me,” I mean that they had a baby shower, called to check up on me, and, after my son was born, brought meals to my house. Stuff like that.

Not once did I feel I was being judged. I might not have the deep faith that those Christians do and sometimes am puzzled by some of the things they say they believe — but I become deeply uncomfortable any time I hear Christian-bashing. With them, there was (as you said) no shame, agony, or hiding under the couch.

Also, my son is high-functioning autistic. Boy, was Governor Palin right on when she said that special-needs children inspire a special kind of love! This son of mine did not fit into a perfect plan, but because he is, I have been so enriched — I have no doubt the same will be true for the Palins.

Compassion and acceptance are powerful things.