God Gave Me a Vision

I have been praying lately about coordinating another 40 Days for Life campaign here in Indy this spring. The folks who coordinated it last fall and this fall aren't planning on doing it again for the spring, but I felt that it would be a good idea. I wanted to see if it could be a way to help Protestant churches get involved. I have my reservations, but I know the Lord will see me through each and every one of them.

Well, up until today, it has just been an idea and not a final decision. But, while I was standing outside of a nearby abortion facility, the Lord gave me a vision. It's a small building (in comparison to the one we prayed outside of for the fall campaign). Instead of being set apart by a large grassy right-of-way and parking lot, we would be able to be right there in front of the building (next to and in front of a small parking lot) or behind the building and rear parking lot. I thought a smaller place might be a better 'target' so that it would be alright if we didn't have a huge crowd (not that I would ever turn one away, lol). So, I was standing there and looking at the ground and thinking about all of this and praying for the women inside as well as the doctor performing the abortions when God sent me a vision of people surrounding the front area (in a big U shape). I know that this is a sign that I NEED to be doing this. I am nervous and even somewhat afraid, but God is in control and I will let Him guide me instead of giving in to my fears.

Please pray with me and for me during this time of planning.

Thank you all for your support. I couldn't do any of this without your prayers.

One Woman Left, One Woman Came Back

As I arrived at the abortion facility on Friday to pray, I was told that we 'had a save' just before I arrived. She didn't want to speak to anyone, just wanted to get out of there. So, that's what the Sidewalk Counselors let her do. They did not speak to her other than to ask her if she had changed her mind and she nodded.

Then, a little whle later, the same girl came back in a different car and accompanied by what we thought had to be her mother. But, when we tried talking to the older woman, she said she had no children. So, we don't know who she was or what kind of influence she had over this girl, but it seemed to be working. Unfortunatel, I had left by the time the girl came out of the facility, so I don't know if she went through with the abortion or if she left again with her baby still in her womb.

But, I was finally able actually get someone to stop and speak to me. I was standing with another counselor when she left her vehicle. He spoke to her and she paused, turned around and walked toward us and received a brochure. We informed her of the increased risk of breast cancer as well as the increased risk of infertility in the future. That's all she heard us say. We never really know if what we have said reaches these women or not until they come out of the facility.

This time, we had a pretty good idea what happened in a fairly short amount of time. She came out of the front door and walked quickly to her car. The gentleman I was standing with had walked towards the front of the parking lot and spoke to her very briefly. He was able to get from her that she had changed her mind. He immediately called me over to him and asked me to approach her vehicle to see if there was anything we could do to help her. So, I did just that. I had done that with others, but they just sped off. Not this time. She actually rolled down her window and spoke to me through sobs. We were both crying. I let her know that I had been praying for her from the moment she stepped from her car until she came back out. I asked if there was anything I could do to help her (including walking her to a pregnancy center down the street). She said that she didn't want to go there. She just needed to leave so she could sort some things out. I was able to get her name and told her we would be praying for her.

She may come back. We don't know. But, for now, she turned around, child still in her womb. And, that, is a success. And, should she choose to follow through with the abortion, I believe she knows we are not there to judge her but to offer her support in healing. Those initial words spoken to a woman can set the foundation to open communication and a trusting relationship so that even if we do not reach them and help them to choose life for their children, we do reach them in letting them know that someone genuinely cares for them and wants to help them heal.

God is certainly good. I very much needed that encouragement after this election.

Bring On the Rain

On Friday mornings, I try to make my way to the nearest abortion facility to pray as soon as I get up. I have mised a few, but do my best to be there.

Well, last Friday (not Halloween, the week before), I decided to make my way there. I woke up and heard rain hitting the bedroom window. It occurred to me how simple it would be to just roll over and go back to sleep. But, that's not what I did.

I got up and got dressed and had my mind set on making the mile walk to the facility. I like having that time to talk to the Lord and just be by myself for a while. It takes me about 45 minutes or so to walk that far. But, it took me a bit longer on this gloomy day.

I wore a long (and wide) scarf over my head and shoulders to keep myself somewhat warm. It worked all the way there, but I should have thought to wear boots or my husband's rain gear as well. Because, you see, when it rains like that, there are puddles all over. Including on the sidewalks and between them. By the time I made it to the facility, I was soaked half way up to my knees. Oh, I was wet everywhere else, but I stepped in puddles deep enough to go completely over my feet. But, I kept on.

Instead of turning around and giving in to being completely cold and soaked, I stood outside of that place for nearly 4 hours.I took 2 momentary breaks at a nearby fast food establishment to warm up, but aside from that, I stood outside as a witness to those driving by and those coming and going from the building. It's one thing to go to an abortion facility when the weather is nice, but it is a true display of character when someone endures the cold and wet (and windy, by the way) environment in order to make a stand for life. I believe it is all part of what we are called to do as Christians. It is a privilege to suffer even a minute fraction of what Christ went through for us.

A Tough Reality

So far, things have been fairly quiet regarding my participation in praying outside of abortion facilities. Except for one incident with a Department of Transportation official, everything has gone pretty routinely. I go, pray, grieve over cars that continue to go in and out of the facility, talk to other volunteers and head home.

This all changed in one afternoon though. I was given some brochures by a Sidewalk Counselor as she left. She had told me what I needed to do and I offered to take over her position. I have taken a peer counseling training last month and felt that if I didn't just jump in, I never would. Experience is the best teacher, so I just took a deep breath and assumed my position next to the driveway. I wasn't prepared for what happened though.

I took a short break and went over to where another volunteer was and sat on the ground and talked to her for a few minutes. While I was sitting there, a big white truck drove into the parking lot. I didn't know what it was at first, but it didn't take long to know it was the truck coming to pick up the babies who had been killed over the weekend. It broke my heart. I wondered if the driver knew exactly what it was he was doing.

Then, while the truck was still inside, a car approached the driveway to leave the facility. I held out a brochure and stepped toward the car. I was hopeful for a brief moment as the passenger window lowered. But, that hope quickly faded to sadness. When the window came down, a woman called from inside the car saying "You're too late, we already killed it."

That simple phrase was enough to rock me to the core. How cold and calloused these words were. But, I had to think deeper. For this young woman to speak such harsh words, she had to have been hurting. I feel very badly for her and her unborn baby. I pray that her child can come to forgive her and that she can find peace and healing in Christ Jesus.

I had prayed to God to send me some kind of sign or something to let me know that our prayers were working and being heard. It can be very discouraging for nothing to be going on while one is present and praying even when it is difficult. This wasn't the answer I was hoping for. But, I have said it before and will continue to say it. When opposition arises, we can be sure that God is at work because Satan wants so desperately to take hold of the abortion industry and see it flourish. But, we all know that GOD IS GOOD and WILL PREVAIL!!!

The Power of Children

I was praying today at Planned Parenthood with my family. This is the first time we all went out to pray. I did most of the praying, but at least we were all there as a united family. And, I think having both of my kids there was a nice touch. Hopefully, someone saw my little ones and made a change of mind and heart and decided to give their unborn baby life.

Another volunteer at the vigil made a comment about my kids being there and how nice it was that I had brought them. It seemed to help bring the point home when my daughter (2 years old) insisted on holding two different signs. Actually, it was three. She carried 2 together for about a minute. They were both about her size, lol. But, having a little one who is nearly still a baby herself carrying a sign that says "Abortion Kills Children" and another that says "Face It, Abortion Kills" seemed to make it all the more real. I just truly hope that someone saw her and was able to realize that what they carried in their womb, beneath their heart, would very shortly (in the grand scheme of things) look just like my little girl.

She was so proud of being able to pick these signs out.

My son (8 months old) couldn't let his big sister get away with hogging all the signs for herself. He had to get in on the action as well. He may not have really known what he was doing, but I am holding out faith that the Lord knew what my little man was doing and used him to send a message to women (and men) driving into or past the Planned Parenthood abortion facility.

He might be looking at the rope here, but doesn't he have a nice prayerful quality about him with his head lowered? :)

I couldn't help but get in on the action here too. I can't decide which was more difficult to carry though. The kids are heavy after a while, but the signs are just plain awkward, especially if anything heavier than a strong breeze comes through. Talk about building upper body and arm strength.

I had to be careful so that she didn't choke me here. She had a good grip on that poster, lol.


I didn't really know how to get him to not smile. He's such a happy little guy almost all the time. God love him! He still looked mighty precious helping Mama carry that sign.

BE BOLD!!!

This one is going to be short, I think. It kinda ties into my previous post.

It is time for Christians to stop saying things like "I wish I had your courage," "It sounds like a good cause, but...," "Wow, I admire what you are doing" and start saying things like "What can I do to help?," "How can I get involved?," "Do you have some information I can look over so I can make an informed decision after praying about this?"

Be BOLD! That's what God wants from us. How can we sit back and complain about how bad the world has become when we are not out there doing something to change it? Seek God's direction, ask for him to give you a passion and then JUMP IN!

I never imagined how fulfilling it could be to do just that. And, when I face opposition from those around me, I can take it as a blessing. It means I am doing something and Satan doesn't like it! Be proud of your opposition. The Bible says that we will be blessed when we are being persecuted by those around us. So, instead of fearing the controversy and confrontation, pray for God's peace and protection and embrace it. You're making a difference!

Calling ALL Christians!

So, I have a question for everyone...

Why do we, as Christians (myself included), sometimes lack the boldness that the Lord has called us to have? Is it fear? Is it laziness? Or, is it simply our own ignorance that we refuse to ignore?

I know that for me it is sometimes simply a lack of knowing what on earth to do with myself. But, that's just not a good enough excuse anymore. It's time to stop finding excuses and step out in faith. I keep hearing people say things about God wanting to bless all of us, but I have found that even though this may be true, many of us don't do enough to bless Him. I don't know, maybe I'm alone here. Honestly, I don't think I am. I think I'm just stupid enough to admit it in black and white, lol.

In light of this recent revelation, I decided to do something about my lack of outward expression of my inward faith. I have always been against the evils of abortion but have never done anything to show that to others or to do my part in ending abortion in Indiana and the United States as a whole. Until now, that is.

I know that a lot of you who know me personally have heard me recently talking about my recent participation in Life Center's Walk for Life and my subsequent volunteering there as well as my involvement with 40 Days for Life. I can't even begin to tell you the profound effect these events have had on my life.

Because I decided to step out in boldness and faith, God has been using me and I have been more busy now than I think I have ever been in my entire life. I may not be receiving a paycheck for what I am doing (and don't get me wrong, that would be a nice bonus, lol), but no one can put a price on a woman choosing life for her unborn child.

I started out being a nervous wreck about getting involved in so many things because of my vision problem, taking care of my children, the amount of money it would take to support this ministry (gas money) and stepping out of my comfort zone and doing what I could to unite more than one faith. The Catholic church has a HUGE presence in the pro-life community and I didn't know how I, as a Nazarene, fit into the cause we know as the 'Pro Life Movement.' But, I decided to put it in God's hands. His Word says in 2 Timothy that He did not give us a spirit of timidity. So, I am handing that over to Him as well. I am stepping out of my comfort zone and taking a huge leap of faith.

And, doing this has made me aware of works that need to be done in His name...

It is time for ALL Christians to step out in faith and live according to His plans for our lives. I know that we all do not have the same calling, and that's not necessarily what I'm asking of any of you. But, what I am asking is that you seek Him first and let Him give you direction. Really pray about the issue of abortion and see where He leads you, not where your fear leads you away from.

We are facing quite possibly the country's more crucial election this year based on this very issue. Is it enough that we simply vote according to the sanctity of life and follow God's command to not murder (and let's face it, that's what abortion is)? Or, should we be doing more? I'm choosing more.

Radio Interview

I am so excited! The Lord is definitely moving!

I was looking for the local Christian radio station in the car the other day but was having trouble finding it. And, even when we did find it, the reception was pretty bad.

I was pretty sure that I wasn't going to be able to listen to the station inside my home either. But, then I remembered that I have their website bookmarked so I can listen to their live audio stream.

Then, while looking around on their website, something occurred to me. Why not see if they have a listing for a PR person or a community calendar area to post events? I really want to do what I can to include as many Christian communities as possible in 40 Days for Life. Don't get me wrong, we have had a great deal of success in participation thus far, but it's never too late to get people involved.

So, I found the calendar page and submitted an email even though according to the guidelines I was too late. I just accepted that the worst thing they could do was say no and not include the 40 Days for Life event.

I also sent an email to a woman at the station requesting a radio interview or at least to consider bending the rules for me and including the event in their calendar. I didn't really expect anything out of it as I'm sure they are busy people and don't have time to answer emails personally on a regular basis.

But, when I got up this morning and went about my normal routine. The last thing on that list of things to do is checking my email messages from two different accounts. I expected a bunch of stuff to go to one account, and I was right, lol. But, I was a bit surprised when I saw that I had 5 messages waiting for me on my other account. Then, I remembered that I had sent out an email to the other members of the core planning committee for 40 Days for Life about today's vigil. So, then I just assumed all the messages were from them.

They were, except for 1. That was sent by the woman I had contacted at the radio station! I was trying to not allow myself to get excited and just thought it was a message saying something like "Sorry, but..." That's not what it said at all though. Below is her email response to me.

Hi Amanda,

Thank you for your email. I would like to do a recorded interview with you sometime this week. What I will do is use some soundbites from the interview for several of my morning newscasts. I’m available to talk to you on Wednesday, Thursday or Friday this week anytime between 9:15am and noon. Please let me know when I can interview you and the best phone number to reach you. Thanks and God Bless!

I was in absolute shock when I read this.

So, this Friday morning, she will be calling me around 10:15 to conduct the interview and then will edit it into the final interview that will be aired on her radio program. I'm excited and nervious all in one! I would greatly appreciate all your prayers as I strive to prepare myself for such a wonderful opportunity.

God is Moving

I went to Planned Parenthood to pray yesterday with 40 Days for Life. It was my second time to go be a part of the vigil. I try to go not expecting anything yet expecting anything because one never knows what will happen at events like these.

Well, yesterday was one of those 'anything can happen' days.

I was running late so didn't get there on time, but when I arrived, there were quite a few people present. I signed in and offered to take over the shift duties so the woman who was doing that could go pray without being disturbed. I think it was close to 2pm when I got there.

As part of being a Shift Leader, I like to take periodic head counts just to see what our numbers look like. At one point, we had 13 folks praying at the vigil. Quite a difference from my first sesion last week where there were only 4 of us for a while and then only 2.

We saw a few cars come and go and we always prayed for them right away. In fact, there were a few times when we would 'talk' to the cars and tell them to turn around. None did except for one.

(Time for a bit of comic relief)

This car pulled into the drive and I saw it and kept saying "Please turn around. Don't go in there." I didn't say it loud enough for them to hear, but that's exactly what they did. I was on the phone at the time, so I told the person on the other end that I needed to hang up because the car was pulling over!

I walked to the car and asked if I could help with something. There was a man in the car looking for me. Talk about shocked! Then, I noticed a sign on his car. My husband, the dear that he is, had decided that since I had already been at the Planned Parenthood for a while I was probably geting pretty hungry. He ordered two pizzas and had them sent over for us! That was about the nicest thing ever.

(OK, back to the rest of the day at the vigil)

We were minding our own business praying and talking to one another when a truck pulled up and sat there for several minutes. Now, my being legally blind, I had no idea what was going on really. I saw that there was something printed on the side of the truck but didn't know what exactly.

After several minutes, a gentleman stepped out of the truck and asked who was in charge. Well, since it was pretty obvious that I was the Shift Leader because of the name badge, I spoke up. He told me (in more words that I'll post here, lol) that although he supported our efforts, we were in violation of some ordinance that said that we weren't allowed to have signs propped up on the ground. It was fine to be holding them, but it was not fine to have them propped. We could either take the signs down or he would take them down himself. I decided it was best to simply comply since I am not aware of all the legal aspects of being in the grassy right of way. I immediately contacted our directors and informed them of what was going on. But, the most interesting thing to me in this situation is that the man (who was from the Indianapolis Department of Transportation) said more than once that he supported our efforts and told us to keep up the good work.

All this is to say that I really feel that God is moving among us in our efforts and Satan knows it. If we weren't being heard or seen, no complaints would have come up at all, I don't think. But, because we are getting negative reactions from some folks, I know that we are making a difference. And, by the way, our vigil site isn't the only one that has been targeted for sign removal.

Praise God our efforts are not going unnoticed! Some may see this as an obstacle, but I see it as a sign that Satan knows what we are doing and is darn mad about it.

My daughter's observation

I know I posted earlier today, but I just had to come back and post again.

While I was watching the videos I mentioned in my last post, I decided to watch some other abortion videos on YouTube. Now, the ones I watched weren't actually abortions. I was looking specifically for some that were pro-life. I found a music video with pictures of fetal development. I asked my daughter (who is 2) what the pictures were. She knew right away. When I asked her, there was a picture of a baby at 9 weeks. She was able to tell me that it was a baby.

What's the point of this, you ask? Simple. If my 2-year-old child can recognize that a fetus is a baby at that early of a stage in development, why can't the adults in our country see the same thing? Why are we even debating about when life begins. It just doesn't make any sense to me at all.

Awesome videos!

So, I was looking on my Facebook page today to see what new things people had posted. I tend to read anything posted by one particular woman. She had posted a video, so I was going to watch it but realized that it was a second part to another vidoe. So, I went to YouTube and found the original so I could watch that one too. TALK ABOUT POWERFUL!!!!!

The videos are of a young woman speaking in Austrailia. She is an abortion survivor! How awesome is that?! Well, not thta her mother tried to end her life by having an abortion, but that she survived! She is a beautiful young woman now and is not afraid to STAND UP for lives that are lost by abortion. She is not afraid to STAND UP for JESUS CHRIST!!! I am just amazed...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kPF1FhCMPuQ&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k8B1nKGIAeg&feature=related

These videos I am sure will touch your heart as much as they did mine.

So many thoughts

I have so many ideas and keep getting more. Granted, most of them have come from other people, but still... I would love to see some of these come to fruition.

First, I became active with 40 Days for Life a few months ago. We are gearing up for this fall's event to begin pretty soon (the 24th). I had one assignment that turned into two that then got turned back into one that is completely different from the first.

I'm glad I decided to participate and get as involved as I have been. Next year, I really want to take on some more responsibilities as far as planning and such. It's a good way to see my ideas taken seriously and maybe even acted upon.

The first is a baby shower/birthday party for those mothers and babies who never got one due to abortion. I believe it could be a wonderful time of healing and celebrating that these little ones are in Heaven with the Lord. It will also be a time of grieving, but we cannot heal without going through that process.

The second is a parade of sorts. Maybe during the big opening rally for 40 Days. While walking to the Planned Parenthood during our opening, we could push empty strollers to signify life that was lost, blow bubbles to signify breath that was never taken and release baloons (or something) to signify those little souls returning to Heaven.

The third could also tie into the last. I believe that babies are human beings from the time of conception and that the bodies of these precious little ones need to be respected. So, why not have a proper burial for them? It would be really touching to be able to contact a cemetery to see if they would 'donate' a small plot or something for these babies to rest. I don't know. This is another thing I read from a friend and thought it was very touching.

I don't tend to have my own original ideas, but ideas of others are so great that I want to capitalize on their thoughtfulness.

Now, one last thing that is comepletely an idea I came up with all on my own...

I am a volunteer at a nearby Life Center and we offer counseling to those considering abortion. We also offer free ultrasound. But, technicians aren't always available. So, I was thinking of getting a portable Doppler. I've been wanting to do this for my doula practice anyway. That way, if there isn't an ultrasound tech available when I'm there but someone is interested in one, I can at least offer them a listen to their baby's heart (if they are far enough along). This is a far-off dream for now though as Doppler equipment can be rather expensive. But, it would also be tax deductible. ;) Gotta love that, lol.

Well, those are my thoughts for the day. Hopefully, they'll soon be more than just thoughts.

Successful Completion

I know I was all concerned about how well the Walk for Life event was going to go because of my lack of financial donations, but, it seems I was worried about nothing.

It was a wonderful experience. It didn't start off that way though. The day started by my sleeping too late, taking too long in the shower, not getting my husband and kids up early enough and being more than 30 minutes after the event was to begin. The walk was to begin at 9, registration beginning at 8. We got there at 9:30. But, we weren't the only ones who were late, so that made me feel a bit better. And, as it turned out, the event got off to a late start as well. When we got there, testimonials were being given over a sound system from the outdoor stage at the State Fairgrounds. We actually had enough time to get registered, take a potty break and put on the t-shirt that was given to me, eat a donut or two (I only ate one, but my hubby ate a few, lol) and get in place for the walk to begin.

We walked about a mile and then spent a little time just socializing. There were a couple activities set up for children to enjoy that included a bouncy house and big inflated slide. My daughter enjoyed both of those greatly. :)

So, in the end, it was a great experience. The only two things that were a bit of a downer was that it didn't last long enough and I ended up with a sunburn. But, hey, those are trivial things and good 'problems' to have with the whole thing, lol.

I'll definitely be a part of this again next year. And, maybe I'll actually figure out something with this whole money part of it all. :)

Fund raising: Maybe it's just not for me

I'm really feeling quite disheartened today.

I signed up to participate in Life Centers' (formerly Central Indiana Crisis Pregnancy Centers) annual Walk for Life event. I thought it would be so much easier this year because instead of going door to door asking for donations (which still works), I could just give people this web address and they could go straight to my personal page and make donations instead of having to worry about handing money over to me and not being completely certain of where it was going or anything like that. I thought it would be so much easier on both parts. I guess I was wrong.

I asked several people and sent out probably 30 emails to people in my contact lists and only received one single donation of $25. I'm quite embarrassed that this is the only contribution I have made for the organization. But, I guess I should be happy with whatever I can bring to them. After all, $25 is $25 more than they would have had if I hadn't signed up. I'm just thinking that maybe fund raising is just not something I am good at. Guess I'll try again next year. Might try a different approach, though I don't know what that is going to be...

Political Frustration

I am not a political person, so I don't profess to know much. But, I do know what is right and what is wrong.

I am thrilled that we have broken new ground in our country this election by having a black man running for president and a woman chosen as a vice president. But, there seems to be a great cost in such triumph.

Some women are angry that a woman is in the running because they feel that it is nothing more than a strategy to get more women voters instead of voting on important political issues. But, that is a far cry to me from what is going on on the other side.

While I am excited that we have our first black candidate, I will not be voting for this man. I cannot, in good conscience vote for him.

Why?

Because he is okay with killing the unborn because he doesn't understand it. What is there to not understand? I am a legally blind woman and even I can see little hands, feet, arms, lets, heads and torsos in abortion videos. If that's not a human being, then what is it?

But, my frustrations go deeper than that.

The other thing I just don't understand is why people support him on this issue. I know there are some people out there that are in agreement with abortion, but I don't understand how some of those people could be Christians.

I have a friend who is so blinded by Obama's charm that she will vote for him regardless of his abortion views. To me, regardles of which political party I belong to, this would be a deal breaker. I could never vote for someone who accepts, allows and encourages abortion as an acceptable choice for women. What happened to the rights of the unborn? Who will speak for them?

I will. Will you?

Why am I here?

And, by here, I mean on this site AND in this world...

I have wondered and wondered for as long as I can remember what my purpose in this life of mine is. I'm still not completely sure I have the answer to that question, but at least I think I have a better idea than I did before.

So, to give you all a helping hand, I'm going to go back a bit to help give you all a better understanding of where I come from...

I was born in 1980 with an incurable eye condition that left me legally blind. I attended the state's School for the Blind from the time I was in Kindergarten until I graduated high school. I decided at a young age that pregnancy and childbirth were my passion. But, when I reached high school, I made a startling realization: the whole world is not blind. So, my dreams of becoming an obstetrician were crushed. I'm not so worried about that anymore after knowing now what I didn't know then. But, at the time, I was heartbroken. So, I decided to give up on the idea that I was going to fit into the world of pregnancy and childbirth for good.

It wasn't until I had finished several years of college that I heard the world 'Doula' for the first time. My heart leaped out of my throat in sheer joy and excitement. Just the idea that I could help women during their pregnancies and births without having a medical degree or being able to see nearly brought me to tears. So, while I was still in college, I took a doula training course to become certified. (Oh, a doula is basically a childbirth assistant.)

I was thrilled to have attended the training and thought things would start off like gangbusters, but I was SO wrong. I attended 2 births that spring/summer and wasn't even able to use those for my certification requirements (long story that I probably won't go into detail about).

Then, in 2005 I got pregnant and things really slowed down (I had been married since 2003). I mean slowed down to the point that I haven't had a client since those first two. But, a few months ago, I decided I wanted to try to get started again but with a bit of a different approach. I wanted to work with an organization that put Christ first. That's where I found Kelly and Cascade Christian Childbirth Association (www.christianchildbirth.org). I finished the study modules a month or so ago and am now moving on to the practical assessments in teaching a childbirth education class and attending births.

But, once again, things seem to be in a drought for me. I keep questioning myself and God. Am I even doing the right thing? Is this where You want me to be? I just don't know...

Well, recently, I heard about an event called 40 Days for Life (www.40daysforlife.com) and decided to check it out. It's a Pro-Life campaign not like any others I've heard of. After reading the website some and seeing what it's all about, I knew right away I needed to get involved.

40 Days for Life is a campaign that happens once or twice a year (this is its second year) where people commit to 40 days of prayer and fasting, peaceful (that's the important word) vigil and community outreach. The purpose of 40 Days for Life is to end abortion. I know it's a touchy issue, but someone has to speak up for those with no voice. And, being that it is a peaceful attempt made it even more appealing to me.

I attended my very first meeting a few weeks ago and was immediately placed in the line of duty as it were. I am the scheduling coordinator as well as information line operator. I am so very nervous about it, but God put me in this position for a reason, so I will be bold in my attempt to serve Him.

Also, a gentleman from Crisis Pregnancy Centers (now Life Centers or LC for short) recently came to speak at my church. I was reminded that I had wanted to volunteer there a few years ago but didn't have the necessary funding to attend the training seminar. But, God is good and His timing is perfect because I am taking the course starting next week and have begun volunteering for the center nearest my home (about a mile down the same street as my home). And, as if it weren't enough that I made the decision to go and become a part of this wonderful ministry, my first day was wonderful. I immediately felt at home there. It was such a God thing! While I was there a young woman in an unplanned pregnancy situation who had been very set on having an abortion changed her mind and even wanted to show her other child ultrasound pictures. She decided to carry her baby to term. VICTORY!!!

So, I guess God does have a plan for my 'slow season' after all. I have been thrown in the complete opposite direction from where I thought I was going. Instead of working with laboring women who are about to give birth, God has led me to work with women just starting out on their journey to motherhood. I am still praying for students and doula clients, but I know God will provide.

So, that's where I am right now except for one other thing (that lead me to create this journal/blog). In my recent journey into the world of abortion and trying to prevent it, I have felt a strong calling on my heart. I am scared, nervous, anxious and all those other emotions that are not of the Lord. But, I am stepping out in faith and have been preparing mentally to take on a new (and very big) challenge. I feel that God has been calling me to sit outside of an abortion clinic for an entire year and pray.

Will you pray with me?
Will you pray for me?

I covet your prayers right now. Please go to Him on my behalf asking for my protection and provision. I have two young children and I don't know how this will effect them.

Speaking of whom, my daughter is begging me to play with her, so I need to 'obey' her and play with magnets like she is asking.

My First Blog

So, this is my very first post ever. I'm quite excited about it too. :)

A friend suggested I start journaling or blogging a specific experience (to come later), so that's what I'm doing. I just wanted to post a quick introduction of myself first.

My name is Amanda and I am a Christian wife, mama of 2, student CBE and Doula as well as a Pro-Life advocate. This is such a new adventure for me and I'm excited and nervous all at the same time. I know the Lord has something in store for me and I'm just now starting to figure out what that is. Or, at least I think I am, lol.

Father, God, I come to you now in prayer asking for your guidance and provision in this new journey. I ask that my words be a blessing to all who read the words on this site and that they would Glorify you, Lord. May I always seek your will and Your way in all that I do. In the name of your precious son, Jesus. Amen.

I welcome you all to join me as I begin this wonderful journey.

And, NO, I am not pregnant, lol. I know my picture is a little misleading. But, all will be revealed in good time. :)