In so many cases our courts are not bashful when it comes to ruling on moral questions, even when it means overruling state legislatures or the intent of Congress or the thinking of other courts. It?s also not uncommon for legislators to weigh in on such matters. National Review editor Rich Lowry recently reminded us of federal habeas review appeals of death sentences, reviews of civil rights violations, and legislative actions in defense of women and the disabled. Think of the recent Supreme Court decision that overturned capital punishment for minors. That decision was based on international opinion and the court?s own interpretation of prevailing social thought on the issue.
By all accounts it appears that Terri Schiavo?s parents were out-lawyered by her husband?s attorneys, a point made by blogger John Hinderaker. Surely the courts were absorbed by legal process -- ruling over and over in favor of past decisions -- rather than a thorough review of all recent facts. Just as surely the courts made no attempt to empower parenting. Doesn?t this remind of the many counterintuitive decisions made by the courts to prevent parental consent, or even consultation, when it comes to abortion? Or schooling? If Terri Schiavo?s parents are willing to care for her, why not simply let them?
?Bid to Save Terri Schiavo Is All But Finished.? That was the Easter morning headline in the Washington Times. But she will ultimately be saved, either in this life or the next. As Father Neuhaus suggests in his exploration, Schiavo?s suffering is another example of those ?who in their troubles find themselves, as they say, at the foot of the cross.? Haven?t we all been there? Isn?t suffering in pursuit of God?s will the exact center of religious life? Isn?t the life of faith all about steep costs and consequential losses on the road to greater wisdom and a better, more faithful life?
For those who understand, accept, and believe in this, Father Neuhaus is certainly right when he says, ?If what Christians say about Good Friday is true, then it is, quite simply, the truth about everything.?