Bridget - A Beautiful Life

Welcome to anyone who is just finding us through the Respect Life materials!

I was contacted earlier this year by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops for our permission to use Bridget's image (specifically, this picture I took of Chris and Bridget one relaxed and happy morning in the spring of 2008) in the Respect Life materials for this year. For those of Catholic faith, this--the first Sunday in October--is Respect Life Sunday.

Though we are not Catholic--and don't discuss our religious or political beliefs here--we do feel that Life itself is precious and that every life has value.

I've written here about my own philosophy on the inherent goodness in the world, and in people, and about my feelings on gratitude and "reverence". I don't discuss the moral and ethical considerations of prenatal testing or termination, and I try to stay out of debates about those issues. Bridget's Light is meant to educate, comfort and inspire. It is where I advocate for Bridget and for other people and families living with Down syndrome.

I will say openly that we did not have prenatal testing with any of our children because we felt we were prepared to handle and embrace whatever came our way. We feel that Life is a gift, and that Bridget is a gift.

We see the merit in many different religions and spiritual (or personal) belief systems, and we are honored that Bridget's picture was selected to represent the value, worth and dignity of all people.

Today, as every other day, we are celebrating Bridget and celebrating Life. We are grateful for Bridget--for her smile, for her presence in our lives, for everything about her.

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Coming up this week on Bridget's Light: Describing Bridget--Thoughts from Her Siblings