My mother let me, an innocent child, live. I am eternally grateful.

As a product of the Florence Crittenton Home for Unwed Mothers, I have powerful, pro-life beliefs.

Had my birth mother made a choice not to carry me to term, I would have never breathed fresh air, been raised by a wonderful farm couple in Iowa, served in the US Army, been a customer engineer for IBM or a police officer in Tulsa, Oklahoma, had a 20-year successful award-winning broadcasting career, served 12 years as a US congressman or ended my work career as vice president of Forensic Technology Inc.

Three terrific young people are walking this earth as a product of the choice my birth mother made more than 85 years ago. Add one more, an adopted daughter, that brings that number to four. Additionally, my wife and I enjoy five of the best grandchildren in the world. My birth mother made all this possible with the help of God.

The correct choice to be made is at the time of conception, not birth. However, we all know that sometimes that is not possible. Even with married couples, accidents happen. But is the conception the fault of the young embryo that will grow into a baby or be killed and sacrificed for an action over which the child had absolutely no control, the poor decision or accident made by his or her birth parents?

Yes, I know pregnancies can be complicated. We have experienced that in our house; however, it has always seemed to me that a young lady who carried the child to birth would never have to suffer emotionally for the rest of her life over two mistakes she had made. She would always know there's someone who loves her, even though they may never meet face to face. She would also know she had given some couple who could not bear a child the joy of their lives. Maybe her bad choice at conception time would not haunt her forever.

I can attest to the validity of the previous statements. Late in life, we had the opportunity to meet and learn about each other. She loved me dearly and I her. Our relationship grew, and two half-brothers and three half-sisters were added to the family tree.

My birth father is only a name, an unknown person undoubtedly deceased by now in a vast world.

The birth father in this situation has the same responsibility as the mother. However, he can and often does walk away without a child in his womb and no concern for the results.

It is said, “The pen is mightier than the sword.” Perhaps someone considering killing an innocent child will read this and change her mind. Yes, it may be difficult for you; however, rest assured that the innocent child you are carrying will be eternally grateful and love you with all their heart. You will have no regrets regarding your decision.

That is just an old man's opinion sitting here on another new blessed day God provided me. Thanks to both of my moms. I love you. Just sayin'.

Jim Ross Lightfoot represented Iowa in Congress from 1985 to 1997.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: I was born in an Unwed Mothers home. Please choose life.