We have to do everything at once. The most difficult thing. We must help single mothers and support them in their very difficult circumstances. But in many cases unwanted pregnancies occur in the context of serial relationships. These mothers need to be supported also. At the same time we need to talk about the problem that occurs when the institution of marriage is eroded.

BTW, I must clarify that I am not the author of the “ten reasons.” Please see the update in the body of the post. I apologize for that .

“According to the USDA, the overall cost of raising a child has increased 15 percent from 1960 to 2007. Compared to today’s $204,060, the cost to raise a child through age 17 in 1960 was $25,230.”

Also found this in the same google search…it came up first btw

“The cost of an abortion depends on the stage of pregnancy and which clinic is providing services. First trimester procedures run about $500-1000. Second trimester procedures cost $600-10,000. Many insurance plans cover abortion. In Washington, abortion is covered by the state medical assistance. State Medicaid coverage varies from state to state.”

Not to play devil’s advocate but why wouldn’t you? As a father of a somewhat large family, I constantly get asked how can I afford it? I just smile and say you take away IPODs, cable, toys, internet, cell phones, etc… Kids are not that expensive. Next come the college question, I then let them in on the fact that some companies offer assitance to college students, and there is always the military. I digress.

You have put belfore us that we need to something about marriage, I agree with you, but shouldn’t we do something about the single mother’s first? Kind of stop the bleeding before we suture the wound. I know a lot of people, a lot, that shun single mothers in church, in social life, in the lack of charity. I can be just as guilty at times, the question I now ask is what can we do in you opinion to help these poor women who have carried their cross alone and wee strong enough and smart enough not to destroy a life because of thier foolish actions. I’m not saying that all actions made by these women are foolish there are extenuating(sp?) circumstances, but don’t we as a result of original sin see the single mother with a “scarlet” letter. Premartial sex, one night stand, divorce, sinners and we lack the charity to help, because of our pride.