Letter: Right to life doesn’t include right to exist in another’s body

Letters to the editor
Published: August 18, 2008

Right to life doesn’t include right to exist in another’s body
Anita Bledsoe (Aug. 8) argues that if we’re glad we’re alive, then we logically ought to oppose abortion, since we wouldn’t be alive if our mothers had chosen abortion.

But this doesn’t follow. After all, if you go back far enough, most people alive today are also descendants of rape. That means that if no rapes had ever occurred, then most of the particular people who exist today would not have existed.

So does that commit us to approving rape? Of course not. Evaluating the present existence of something and evaluating the process by which it came about are two different things. Likewise, then, I can be glad of my own present existence and still think my mother would have been perfectly entitled to abort me, since the right to life does not include the right to exist in somebody else’s body.

Roderick T. Long
Auburn

Menefee the best bet to serve as Ward 2 representative in Opelika

I am writing to express my sincere appreciation for what Arturo Menefee is doing for his community and for everyone who has the privilege of knowing Artie.

Arturo (Artie) first introduced himself to me almost 10 years ago when we were students together seeking our masters in Public Administration at Auburn University. Shortly thereafter, Arturo and I began working together exclusively on public policy. It was at this time, I realized Arturo’s work ethic and integrity that has propelled him through a bachelor, masters, and expected doctorate in public policy later this year. Arturo has continually demonstrated his perseverance, passion, and dedication towards working with Greater Peace CDC and his community.

I have the privilege of working with Arturo and seeing firsthand what positive growth means to our families and our community. As an energetic leader, Arturo is passionate about improving the quality of life for all citizens of Opelika through his efforts.

Others may not see Arturo as the primary caregiver for his father or as a full-time employee and student at Auburn University, while also volunteering and assisting many non-profit organizations. By my own admission, I am biased because Artie is a personal friend that I have grown to respect and appreciate from his steadfast belief in Christ and in his community. I know Arturo as a man of conviction.

Won’t you please help elect Arturo Menefee for Opelika City Council Ward 2 on Aug. 26? He is the right man for the job!

Benjamin L. McSwean
Auburn