Red Envelope - Quiet but Clear

Sometimes an idea is shared that is simple and perfect for addressing an issue. This is one such idea and I hope you will be inspired to pray for its effectiveness. I hope you will take part and share the idea.

I thank Mum2Twelve (actually 13 now) for this wonderful information. Author: John Otto.

Dear Friends and Intercessors:

This afternoon I was praying about a number of things, and my mind began to wander. I was deeply distressed at the symbolic actions that President Obama took as he began his presidency. Namely, that he signed executive orders releasing funds to pay for abortions, permission to fund human stem cell research, and federal funding for contraception. I have been involved in the pro-life movement for nearly 20 years, and it pained my heart to see a man and a political party committed to the shedding of innocent blood. This man, and this party lead our country, but they do not represent me or the 54% of Americans who believe that abortion is wrong and should no longer be legal..

As I was praying, I believe that God gave me an interesting idea. Out in the garage I have a box of red envelopes. Like the powerful image of the red LIFE tape, an empty red envelope will send a message to Barack Obama that there is moral outrage in this country over this issue. It will be quiet, but clear.

Here is what I would like you to do:

Get a red envelope. You can buy them at Kinkos, or at party supply stores. On the front, address it to:

President Barack Obama
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Ave.
Washington , D.C. 20500

On the back, write the following message.

This envelope represents one child who died in abortion.
It is empty because that life was unable to offer anything to the world.
Responsibility begins with conception.

Put it in the mail, and send it. Then forward this email to every one of your friends who you think would send one too.. I wish we could send 50 million red envelopes, one for every child who died before having a chance to live. Maybe it will change the heart of the president.

Warmly,
John Otto


(new PS from Soutenus)
My original idea (below) was nixed by the administration.
That is OK - I am going to go to my parish and offer the idea to them.

Perhaps we can plan a RED ENVELOPE PARTY there! That may be an even better idea because we can celebrate the ability to have our voices heard in this country while creating our peaceful messages.
Yeah! God is good. When one idea doesn't work He comes up with a better one.
I'll bet the newspaper may even be interested.


(original PS) from Soutenus
Let's "address" this issue together and with creativity and enthusiasm!

I believe I will check into having an after school coloring session for any student who wants to stay after school to color an envelope.
We could leave rectangles of white space for writing.

If students take the time to actually color these envelopes red they will be taking the time to think about what it represents.
OR we could make red envelopes out of red construction paper!
OR we could simply address our personal red envelopes and celebrate coming together & trying to live our faith more fully.
I think seeing many, many red envelopes - ready to be mailed - would be a very positive symbol for the students.

Small, consistent, clear, united steps . . . .let's keep moving forward.