This has been resting on my heart for a long time.  My own daughters know this and the young women closest to me.  But it also belongs to all the young women I know: family, friend’s daughters, the clerk at my favorite craft store, the neighbor’s granddaughter.  If you ever find yourself pregnant and are afraid or are considering ending your pregnancy this is my promise:

My promise you.

For every young woman in my life, this is my promise.

If you are ever pregnant and worried, alone or frightened.

I will care for you and for your child: today, tomorrow and forever.

You do not need to be alone.

If you need safe housing, food, transportation or clothing I will help you.

If you need help finding medical care or getting to appointments I will help you.

If you need legal assistance I will help you find it.

If you need to cry I will hold you, if you are scared I will comfort you, if you are overwhelmed I will remind you how strong, capable and brave you can be.

If you need someone to be there when you have your baby I will be there and hold your hand, comfort you or do anything you need.

If you need someone to care for your child for a month, or a year or a life time I will – no questions or judgement.

If you would rather have someone else care for your child I will help you find that person.

I will do anything and everything I can to help you and your baby. If I can not help in any specific way I will do all I can to help you find the help I can not provide.

I will be there for you and for your child because you are both important, because life is beautiful and precious and you are both worthy of love and support.