If a parent is neglecting their child then the state has to step in, right? Some of those abuse cases are downright horrific. In fact, there are probably many more children that should be helped and slip through the cracks.
Having been enlightened via e-mail about this particular disease and case, my perspective has changed. The state is trying to save this boy's life. Since this disease has no leeway, either you nip it in the bud or you die, it is a race against time. And the fact that the state is so concerned about the life of a child gives me hope. Either way, in this case, it seems that they might be justified in stepping in.
And that is a comforting thought. Comforting to know that maybe they are not looking for new reasons to rip our children from our arms. Taking this on a case by case basis, and not as a sweeping universal cry of alarm, we have to admit that there are and will be times when it is necessary to protect a child from his caregivers.
Notice I am hesitant to step up on a soapbox and publicly condemn these parents. I truly believe they have good will and love for their son. I would never say otherwise. I do not know them and cannot judge their intentions to be malicious.
I just pray that they get him the help he desperately needs before it is too late.
3 comments:
This is really a tough one, Meg. On one hand, society must protect children from anyone who would do harm. On the other hand, how did the state find out about this boy? Is there an ulterior motive there? Only God knows what's in people's hearts. The parents sound a little wacky, certainly unconventional. Running is definitely wrong -- do they have something to hide? I guess I hate the most that the media makes it everyone's business and if this is anything, it's definitely not that.
My problem with the state making these decisions is that it sets a precedent. What if the state decides the pregnancy of 12/13 yo is a health risk and decides the girl should have an abortion? What about a special needs child who is forced to go to school rather than homeschool? Except in true, obvious cases of abuse I think the family's sovereignty needs to be protected.
It truly is ironic that a teenager's right to kill her unborn child is protected, but a teenager's right to reject medical care is not.
T
Today is the Feast of St. Rita...my prayer today is for her intercession in this whole situation....Blessings
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