What happens when someone says no to Planned Parenthood

When I think about Planned Parenthood's response to Susan G. Komen's initial decision to defund the abortion giant, I imagine an angered alien monster baring its fangs and uttering a menacing roar from the depths of its being. Fluttershy's anguished scream comes close but, of course, the graphic lacks a level of fear-inducement.

The episode with Komen has certainly given pro-life ministries a lot to think about. One of those things is how we respond when someone says no to us. What do we do when a donor (or potential donor) can't accommodate a funding request, or continue with giving as in the past?

I hope this is true of every pregnancy center in the nation . . . no, I'm confident it is true: We smile, say thank you for your consideration of our request, thank you for past support, and promise to maintain the relationship despite the refusal.

There can be many reasons an individual or foundation chooses not to give. Christian principles of giving and receiving demand we respond with grace and gratitude. And with a continuance and strengthening of fellowship.

Quite often the reason someone chooses not to give is a change in family situation or lack of funds. I can't tell you how many times I've sat in my office across from our president's and heard him pray over the phone with a donor/friend. Money aside, we can share with them and they can share with us through prayer.

It is our policy/habit/way of life to quickly follow a "no" with a request for prayer and an offer to pray. "How can we pray for you?" Prayer is not a last resort, or the least we can do for each other.

Keep this in mind: Planned Parenthood doesn't have a prayer.