The digital realm is replete with remarkable manifestations of the splendour of existence, if only we are willing to perceive them and to allow ourselves to be moved.
I was prompted to reflect on this adage when a colleague forwarded me a TikTok video bearing the username @tellmethenewsjohnny. The video depicts a woman who appears to be in a state of distress, being questioned by a medical professional. It appears as though she has a computer screen in front of her, on which she can respond. The video allows the viewer to observe the woman’s facial expressions and responses to the questions posed by the doctor.
The woman is informed by a medical professional that she is aware of the option to terminate the pregnancy. The woman, who is in tears, is presented with two options: The woman is presented with two options: “yes” or “no.”
It should be noted that those who wish to observe the dramatic response in question are invited to cease reading and view the video at this point.
The woman, with an almost imperceptible shake of her head, responds in the negative and releases a breath. However, this is merely the initial stage.
She is then presented with a second question. Similarly, the second question is designed to influence her decision in favour of termination. The doctor then asks, “Having a child with Down syndrome will result in a life that is not considered normal, are you certain that this is what you want?”
The woman pauses, takes a moment to collect her thoughts, and then responds in the affirmative. It is as if she has passed a test, as though she has been granted a reward for her efforts. As a reward for her compliance, the woman is asked, “Would you like to see your future?”
The woman, having taken a moment to collect her thoughts, nods her head in agreement and presses the button indicating her assent.
In the subsequent segment, the viewer is presented with a photograph of a young infant, whose radiant smile illuminates the screen. A series of video clips depicts the infant’s progression from crawling to standing, playing, and walking. Each developmental milestone is met with enthusiastic encouragement from the infant’s biological mother.
The conclusion is a genuine emotional rollercoaster. The message, which reads, “I wouldn’t change you for the world,”
The life-affirming conclusion is not the sole factor that renders this brief video so impactful. The woman’s face, the pain in her eyes, the intake and exhalation of breath (as if to summon her courage) as she contemplates her answers convey a great deal. The viewer is able to empathise with the protagonist, who is depicted as a woman facing a genuine crisis. The narrative effectively portrays her overcoming her fears.
If you have not already done so, it is recommended that you take the time to view the video today as a means of self-gift. It is probable that the video will elicit a strong emotional response, evoking feelings of joy and gratitude for the opportunity to raise a child with Down syndrome.
Daniel Miller is responsible for nearly all of National Right to Life News' political writing.
With the election of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency, Daniel Miller developed a deep obsession with U.S. politics that has never let go of the political scientist. Whether it's the election of Joe Biden, the midterm elections in Congress, the abortion rights debate in the Supreme Court or the mudslinging in the primaries - Daniel Miller is happy to stay up late for you.
Daniel was born and raised in New York. After living in China, working for a news agency and another stint at a major news network, he now lives in Arizona with his two daughters.
