Reflections from 40 Days for Life Lakewood, Spring 2020
From Lynda, leader of 40 Days for Life Lakewood
Reflections from Day 11
On Saturday, March 07, the City of Lakewood held their Lakewood Run. This is an annual community and family friendly event sponsored by the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station and Soroptimist International. Their event page states that proceeds go to benefit programs and services for women and girls served by Soroptimist International of Lakewood and Long Beach, abused and neglected children of Los Angeles County through the 999 Foundation, and the Lakewood Sheriff’s running team.
Participants enjoyed either the 5K Run/Walk, 10K Run or 1K Fun Run. The 5K and 10K route went right past our 40 Days for Life campaign vigil in front of Planned Parenthood. We had a large gathering of various faith based prayer warriors who took turns holding up our huge “PRAY TO END ABORTION” banner. Jeannie came up with the great idea of cheering everyone on and we all had a wonderful time doing that. Community support for us was high out there with lots of thumbs up, applause, cheers, peace signs and thanks, including those from Lakewood Sheriffs.
Honestly, I think we had the most fun that day with lots of positive community feedback and blessed fellowship. I’m really looking forward to next year’s event and hope you can join us.
Reflections from Day 18
On Saturday, March 14, a man pulled into the Lakewood Planned Parenthood parking lot and told his story to Don and I. He shared how years ago he and his wife already had three children and were pregnant with their fourth child. They felt they could not afford another child so decided to abort. On the day they went to the abortion facility, there was a nun standing outside holding a sign and praying. The couple then chose life. He and his wife are so grateful they did. They can’t imagine their lives without this child’s life. He thanked us for being out there. He emphasized to us to keep being there, that we do make a difference.
Thank you for sharing these encouraging stories. Even though the Chinese virus caused 40 Days for Life Spring 2020 prayer gatherings to be suspended I’ve no doubt your group made a huge impact on the community. God bless you all!
Thank you so much for leading us, Lynda. I’ve met some good people and I hope our prayers and witness bear fruit!