[ WP ] You live in a world where , due to overcrowding , a pregnant couple must announce the pregnancy to the town . The town then votes as to whether or not the pregnancy is of sufficient pedigree to permit the child to live . A vote of no and the town aborts the baby .

Dear Jeremy, 
 
 We ’ ve never had the chance to meet, but if there is a God that ’ s any good to his word, then I have had the blessing of watching you grow into the fine young man that I know you will become. This may be confusing, as you likely still believe that I have passed away from an unforeseeable brain aneurysm. Forgive your mother for that lie. She was only keeping a promise, which the two of made in order to protect you from a truth that no child need know. 
 
 But you are no longer a child. It is your 18th birthday. Today you become a man and tomorrow you find out a truth that all people your age must learn. Still, as I place my hand over your mother and feel you kicking inside, I know it within my heart that this is a truth you should hear from us. 
 
 For every child conceived, the community must come together to vote on whether the birth should be permitted or humanely terminated. When your mother and I learned she was pregnant with you, we were terrified. But we fought-with every ounce of strength and all our love for you- we fought to have you affirmed. Sometimes though, even everything isn ’ t enough. And now your mother and I are faced with the inevitable. Tomorrow, I give my life so that you may live. For all the years I won ’ t be there for you, it is only because my love for you knows no limits. I wish there could be a better way, but as I imagine you reading these words, I know in my heart that I have made the right decision. 
 
 Beginning tomorrow, you will be charged with following this law, as well carrying it out. It is not a process of indignation, of petty vengeance, nor cold calculated necessity. It is a task of sorrow and a penitence we all must pay, for the mistakes of our neighbors and for our own. You are receiving a terrible burden my son, but one I know that you carry with integrity and virtue. Today though, I wish you a happy birthday and thank you for making your father the proudest in the world. 
 
 Watching you with all the love in my heart, 
 
 Dad 

