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@Peachtree: I think there is a big difference in "pressuring" and "advising". It sounds to me like you have offered her your opinion and perspective.

I am somewhat sick of this world just standing by and letting everyone do what they want. If you don't believe in it and don't believe it is the right thing to do, then stand up and say something. For example, If I see someone about to drive drunk, I step in and say something so they don't kill someone. Obviously it is their own business if they choose to drive drunk, but I believe it is wrong and I will say something and offer them help and an alternative situation (a cab home or information about adoption). If they choose to listen to me great, if not yes, it is their decision.

@MsLipGloss: Seriously! I was in the perfect place in my life for a baby, we were very ready, and she was desperately wanted. And it is the hardest thing I have ever done. I often think 'wow, I'm glad I went into this 100% willingly', because knowing how much I wanted it really gets me through the hard parts. I wonder about people who go into it accidentally, or when they aren't ready. If any part of me did not want this experience, I would be so angry. That must be so, so difficult.

I am pro-choice, as well. But in your situation, have you asked your sister if she is willing to put the baby up for an adoption? If she is healthy, she might be able to find parents that can pay for her medical expenses. I wouldn't force her to choose adoption but I would suggest the idea to her.

But as a pro-choicer, I do believe it's ultimately up to her decision. As someone who is dealing with infertility, adopting an infant is definitely a possibility at this point in my life. She can choose whether she wants the adoption to be open or closed... meaning she wants contact or no contact at all with the child.

@Thehistoryofus: I'm confused. Are you comparing a drunk driver to a woman who chooses to abort? If so, wow.

I don't think this is even a question for debate. She is 22 years old. You are saying she should be taking responsibility for her actions but yet you are trying to persuade her into what you think is best. All you can do is support her in the decision she makes and be hopeful that she does learn from this. If she's not ready for whatever reason to raise a child, who are you to convince her that she is? I don't think this thread needs to be a discussion on who is pro-life or pro-choice. Your sister is the only person who can make the decision. Period.

@Thehistoryofus: OP used the word "pressuring" and wanted advice for how to "persuade" her sister into keeping the baby. Pressuring and persuasion are not advising. OP has said her peace, time to be a supportive sister or butt out if she can't handle her sister's choices.

@Peachtree: Sorry you can disregard that comment I deleted it.

@mrsjazz: I am sorry if I did not make that clear. I do not believe that you should "pressure" anyone on an issue this large. Ultimately the decision is hers and she has to live with that decision whatever it may be. However, if you do not agree with what someone is doing (aka driving drunk or an abortion) you have the right and should stand up to make your opinion known. I also believe you should be prepared that people may not agree with your stance and they may not want to be around you any more (but if you really believe in your stance you should be willing to accept that).

I think the best thing you can do for your sister is be there for her no matter you what she decides.

I am pro life for myself! Especially now that I've gone through a pregnancy I could never imagine having an abortion. But I also recognize that I have no authority to tell anyone else what to do with their own body. I think it would be more of a tragedy for this child to be brought into a world where it isn't wanted or loved than for your sister to have an abortion. You've said your peace, now leave the situation alone unless you are going to step up and help raise the child. Also, you said you were a mother and in that case I find it very sad that you are basically saying your sister should accept this child as "punishment" for her irresponsible choices.

@Thehistoryofus: The OP doesn't have to hold her hand through the procedure but she should at least respect her sisters decision and try to be there for her. If she chooses to not be supportive then she can more than likely kiss any future relationship with her sibling goodbye. I certainly couldn't respect someone who would turn their back on me during an incredibly trying time in my life, regardless of our differing beliefs.

@KissMeCait: Agree, I think the term "support" can be defined many ways and some believe that it should mean drive her to the clinic. Could you be emotionally supportive and respect someone who murdered/killed/aborted a child?

I understand what you are saying, I am just trying to give the OP some perspective and support on this thread.

@Peachtree: Are you perfect in every way? I doubt it. No one is. Everyone makes mistakes. She shouldn't be demonized because she screwed up.

<< I certainly couldn't respect someone who would turn their back on me during an incredibly trying time in my life, regardless of our differing beliefs. >>

@KissMeCait: I'd appreciate it if you could help us keep this thread civil.

@Peachtree: It's a really touchy subject on any forum. If no one ever talked about these issues the world would be a pretty boring place.

@Thehistoryofus: I consider murdering/killing a child and aborting a "child" to be two very different things. In my opinion, life does NOT begin at conception so abortion is not murder. Yes, of course I could emotionally support and respect someone who aborted a fetus. I have, I do and I always will. No, I could not respect someone who murdered a child because he/she was a living, breathing being.

@mrbee: How am I not keeping this thread civil? Trust me, I'm not expressing half of the thoughts that I really have on the subject.

@Peachtree: She definitely did make the adult decision of being intimate with someone. The consequence is having to make an extremely difficult life decision that will no doubt affect her for the rest of her life.

My initial response was made without regard to whether I'm pro choice or pro life. It more had to do with your statement about pressuring your sister. You are both in a very difficult situation - I would find it very hard to not impose my views on a close loved one in this situation. I'm sorry that you are dealing with this and I hope your sister copes.