50 years ago I had an abortion. It was not because I was in an abusive relationship, or had been raped, or was being forced somehow to do this. I had this abortion performed simply out of cowardice because I was afraid of my parents, afraid of others’ reactions, didn’t want this to be happening to me, and i did not take responsibility. I have the seemingly entrenched belief, still today, that I am a murderer and unworthy. I have no respect for myself, deep down, though I have done many wonderful things in my life, and the trajectory of much of my life has been dictated by this event 50 years ago. I love all beings, especially children, and I have no children, choosing relationships that would not include having children. I have been unable to feel free enough to acknowledge and become my authentic self, and to integrate this overwhelming guilt, despite years of spiritual practice, giving to others, helping others, practicing self compassion. I am looking for the missing action I need to take to achieve some relief.
Unrelenting guilt
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Dear Unrelenting,
Please check out Rachel’s Vineyard (Project Rachel) ministry in your area, for post-abortive women. It is a weekend retreat where you can share your pain openly and receive Christ’s forgiveness, without judgment. It’s a ministry of the Catholic Church. “Come let us reason together. Though your sins be as scarlet they shall be as white as snow. Though they be red as crimson, they shall be as wool.” Isaiah Chapter 1 verse 18. May our Lord bless you .
I can SO relate to your story. My life has gone very similarly to yours. Deep down I have seen myself as a murderer, a child killer. But God has redeemed me and washed me white as snow. Turn to HIM and accept the sacrifice Jesus made for you. You deserve freedom from grief, shame, guilt and pain. You were lied to – society told us it was no big deal, but our lives proved differently. You will see your child in heaven.