Silent No More

I was reminded the other day of an organization called Silent No More.

A few years ago, I was privileged to be at a small rally at the Colorado state capitol building. The speakers outnumbered the listeners. After an introduction, woman after woman got up and told their story. For most, this was the first time they told their secret. The common theme was, "I regret my abortion."

Being there and hearing these women speak was one of the most moving experiences of my life.

There were women in their 50's who had kept their abortion secret since they were in their teens. It became clear that the secret haunted them almost every day. Finally they could talk and for some it was the beginning of healing.

I belong to the Samson Society. It's a group of men who are tired of secrets and of living in isolation. We are learning to tell the truth in a safe environment and to welcome the involvement of our brothers in our lives.

Both of these groups have something in common. Most of the time the church was not a safe place to tell the truth.

I cried as I heard these women tell their stories. I hurt for them, for so long their shame had no outlet. I'm so glad for the grace and forgiveness they can experience in Christ. I'm glad that they can be silent no more.

Philip