My colleague Greg Webb and I were invited to speak at a pro life conference at Fordham University this month. It was an effective event. The purposes of Greg and I's presence was to inform the audience on how to "sidewalk counsel".
Many in the room didn't know what sidewalk counseling was, until I explained the basics of it. Sidewalk counseling is exactly what it's title states. You are located on the sidewalk, outside of an abortion clinic, where you attempt to counsel girls going in.
"Counseling" consists of actions taking place. This suggests the task is not passive,but active. You can't just stay in one spot of the sidewalk. You must move with the girl, and walk with her as she makes her way to the door.
It's essential to have some sort of pamphlet. This way, you are not just using verbal , but also photographic communication. Extend the paper out to her, so that she has something to hold onto while she waits in there. You are giving her something that has contact information for the help that she needs.
Always smile. Have an unavoidable peace that transcends from your facial expressions to your body movement that has her guessing, "what does this person have that I don't?" She will become curious as to what you have to say. This also helps her feel less threatened and less judged.
These were a few of the basic principles I taught at the seminar. It was a great audience. I would love to do it again sometime !
If you have any specific questions about sidewalk counseling, feel free to contact me via email: arsnyderDMB@gmail.com
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