Two important debates are being fought daily in the United States, starting in our own homes, extending to the streets in protest, and being broadcast on TV, radio, and over the internet.  

I will try to be objective in this post, but I know I am biased.   We all are in some way, fashion, or form.   And though I will try to hide that bias, I am sure that it will find a way to emerge as I write.  

**Disclaimer:**  I am not a woman, I have never identified as one, and I have no personal experience of pregnancy (my wife has though).  I also would not be considered an immigrant, but I know that my distant relatives made treacherous journeys many, many years ago in the hope of a better life and future.

<h1>Common Themes</h1>

<h2>Defending Something That Is Viewed As Important</h2> 
If something is not worth defending, then why put up a fight?  Both sides of both issues view their position as important and therefore worth defending.

Supporters of abortion fight for women's reproductive rights, while supporters of a wall fight under the banner of security.  Opponents of both issues demand rights, respect and protection be offered to the weakest and most vulnerable among us.

We fight to defend what we value.  And by extension,  we defend what we view as best for either an individual, family, local community, or even entire nation.

<h2>The Reasons Why We Stand Up And Speak Out Are Diverse</h2>
Supporters of abortion say ...
- "my body, my right"
- a woman should not be forced to continue a pregnancy if that woman is not emotionally, physically, or financially ready to have a child
- a woman does not need to share her reason if she does not want to

Supporters of a wall say ...
- there will be a reduction in drugs
- there will be a reduction in crime

Opponents of abortion say ...
- consider adoption
- all life is meaningful and should be protected

Opponents of a wall say ...
- we have a responsibility to protect others even if they are not citizens of our country
- we are a nation built on the back of immigrants

Everyone has a stated reason for supporting and/or opposing the issue that they view as most important. 

<h2> Sometimes Fear Drives The Discussion</h2>

As a whole, I don't believe our country stands for terrorism or supports anyone who does.  But the possibility of a terrorist attack grows fear in the heart of our nation.

I would never personally wish that any women ever be raped or experience a severe medical condition that threatens the continuation of her pregnancy.  But the chance of it happening can be paralyzing.  And to hear the news that a child will not be carried to full term or that the child will be born with a severe defect is devastating.

<h2>Unfortanately, We Start To Question The Character Of The "Unwanted"</h2>

As a society, we tend to throw labels on others when we don't want to (or feel like we can't) include in our homes and communities.

As individuals, we have to wrestle with our definition of "humanity" and "life.  By making someone "less than human" or "not yet human," we increase the chances of pushing away the "unwanted."

What we value most, we praise with our words and our actions.

<h1>Final Thoughts</h1>
This post is just some of my personal thoughts, things that I am struggling with.  I don't have all the answers, and my writing does not account for all of the possible scenarios.  Again I was hoping to share all of the sides as objectively as possible, but I know that I probably failed!

All I know is that a lot of decisions are being made that will impact generations to come.  I support your right to defend your stance on any given matter, and I hope that we can continue this conversation in a way that is meaning for all of us.

Thanks for stopping by!
@SumatraNate