watkins@ut-ngp.UUCP (03/22/84)
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I shared an idea about a sign-up and wait period when an abortion
is requested, and wish to carefully elaborate and explain. Again,
I am not sure what the best solution(s) may be, but I do believe
that looking for a more commonly acceptable approach to abortion
is discussable. Some people don't respect animals rights, others
do, so we compromise and work together as a society. We can't
please all the people all of the time, but we can give it a shot.
My proposal (and it was just that) is for a *short* waiting period
from the time when an abortion was requested. Granted, a large
number of these women feel ready to make such a decision, but a
significant minority are not. As Sophie pointed out, a short wait
doesn't change the risk significantly or (depending on your point
of view) whether the woman is killing a human with rights. [My
pardon, I know Sophie and I might disagree, but I agree that this
point was valid.]
The example of the handgun waiting period is still valid too. I
might feel insulted if I have to wait on my purchase. Everyone
I know, myself included, is not likely to buy a gun and use it for
robbery, or grudge settling. But for "the common good" I sit back
and wait. Application here: Abortion is a decision which many women
have regretted. Might we not help those who aren't truly prepared
avoid a regrettable decision? This isn't refusing an abortion to
anyone, it is only a small wait.
Marriage licenses in many states work the same way. People, because
they are people, can get wrapped up in what is happening to them and
find themselves wanting to marry *right now*. No one is being turned
down, just a little waiting time is prescribed.
In many states, sales over X dollars, could be reversed within Y number
of days, if the purchaser had regrets. A good salesman once had me
rooting for some land in Colorado and this saved my neck.
Abortion is not a refundable decision. If the woman waits and sticks
with her original decision, then she has that right to proceed. However,
a few may find that there are alternate solutions that are more appropriate
for their personalities or beliefs.
Morgan Watkins