The Red Envelope

I am subscribed to the Mini Above Rubies email newsletter, and read the first issue this morning. In one of Nancy's articles she featured a email that has apparently been circulating through everyone's inbox. Here's what it said:

"I am sure that many of you have received the following letter on your email. It is circulating around. However, I wondered if you have done anything about it! Help! I haven't done anything myself yet, but I am planning to do it for I think it is a wonderful idea. Here it is for those of you who haven't read it. I hope we can all take action. I know it takes a little effort. I've got to drive an hour and a half into the city to purchase some red envelopes, but I will be doing it!

This afternoon I was praying about a number of things, and my mind began to wander. I was deeply distressed at the symbolic actions that President Obama took as he began his presidency. Namely, that he signed executive orders releasing funds to pay for abortions, permission to fund human stem cell research, and federal funding for contraception. I have been involved in the pro-life movement for nearly 20 years, and it pained my heart to see a man and a political party committed to the shedding of innocent blood. This man, and this party lead our country, but they do not represent me or the 54% of Americans who believe that abortion is wrong and should no longer be legal.

As I was praying, I believe that God gave me an interesting idea. Out in the garage I have a box of red envelopes. Like the powerful image of the red LIFEtape, an empty red envelope will send a message to Barack Obama that there is moral outrage in this country over this issue. It will be quiet, but clear.

Here is what I would like you to do:

Get a red envelope. (You can buy them at Kinkos, or at party supply stores.) In the front, address it to:

President Barack Obama

The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Ave.

Washington, D.C.

On the back, write the following message:

'This envelope represents one child who died in abortion. It is empty because that life was unable to offer anything to the world. Responsibility begins with conception.'

Put it in the mail, and send it."

I thought this was a great idea! While we don't have any red envelopes, I'm sure I can make one of my own with some red construction paper.

Anyway, for sure, a red envelope addressed to the White House will be waiting in our mailbox for the mailman on Monday morning!