By Maria Gallagher, Legislative Director, Pennsylvania Pro-Life Federation
Editor’s note. My family and I will be on our vacation through September 7. I will occasionally add new items but for the most part we will repost “the best of the best” — the stories our readers have told us they especially liked.
The other week I happened to catch a showing of the box office smash Mama Mia. Beyond the catchy Abba tunes and the enchanting dancing, the movie carries some important life lessons.
For instance, it was refreshing to hear a friend of the main character speak about her ally’s courage. The main character, Donna, bravely faced an unexpected pregnancy with no family around to provide support. Her landlady is the only person present at the birth of her daughter.
No pregnant woman should have to go it alone. That is why the pro-life movement is so incredibly important. We offer the non-judgmental, compassionate pregnancy resource centers which see women through their pregnancies. Ideally, every family would provide support and love to a pregnant woman.
But, sadly, some women just don’t have that family support. That is where pregnancy centers come in, offering a helping hand to women in need. Those who attack pregnancy centers on the basis of their own radically pro-abortion stands hurt women at the most vulnerable point in their lives.
Mama Mia honors pregnancy as an incredible time in a woman’s life. We see pregnant characters truly joyful with the knowledge that they have been honored with an amazing grace. It is touching to see the love these women hold for their preborn children.
Mama Mia also celebrates life with exuberance. The characters sing and dance with abandon, showing the joy that life brings. They recognize the inherent value of life and know that it is a tremendous gift which should not be taken for granted.
While viewers may have objections to the lifestyle choices of the film’s characters, it is important to credit Mama Mia with what it does right–demonstrating the preciousness of life, especially life in the womb. Every so often, popular culture embraces the fundamental truth that life is sacred and should be protected. When it does, we should recognize and savor that teachable moment.