I refuse to take the blame for "burning political capital." If the Republicans in Congress can't get the President's agenda items through, it't not because they spent a chit on a pro-life issue; it's because they're feckless weenies.
And there you have it: you help make the mess, then refuse to take responisbility for it.
You've eloquently made the point: by your own analysis, the GOP is better off not doing business with you.
It is good for us to think ahead and plan for our last days, whenever they might be. Most importantly, it is good to discuss our wishes with family.
Although "living wills" are becoming very popular, we should remember that they did not originate within Christian circles. Euthanasia and "right to die" organizations exist, in part, to encourage elderly and infirm people to get out of the way to make room for the more productive and useful members of society. Before euthanasia would ever be accepted by society, "right to die" advocates knew the climate of society would have to change. In 1967, a Chicago attorney by the name of Luis Kutner introduced a new document designed to bring about that change. The document was called a "living will."
Signing a "living will" may mean signing away unspecified treatment in an unknown situation in the future. It is far better to make our wishes known to a trusted friend or family member or to appoint a durable power of attorney who will speak for us when we cannot speak for ourselves.
But... my family knows me well. Won't they know what I would like done when my death is imminent?
In a survey of nursing home residents, 80% said they would want life support if necessary. However, only 30% of their families thought their loved ones would want life support. Families need to talk! Families must communicate! This will also help eliminate anger and disharmony between family members.
http://www.lutheransforlife.org/Life%20Issue%20Info/End-of-Life/ventilators_-_feeding_tubes.htm
Next, we'll hear that FR was never actually a conservative website.