Everyday, we as humans (and in this case, more specifically teenagers) have decisions that must be made. These decisions can range from the simple questions in life to the extremely difficult issues that often perplex us. Either way, these choices in our lives ultimately make up who we become and where we go in the future. At the top of the list of theses important decisions is the issue of abstinence, or the act/practice of refraining from sexual intercourse.
Years ago, I personally decided to make this practice of abstinence an everyday part of my life, and I must say that it has proven to be one of my best choices. The logic behind this choice is clear and I contribute it to three main factors: pregnancy, prevention, and pride. These three P’s of abstinence help me to stay on track and therefore become a better person.
The first “P” of abstinence, pregnancy, is probably the most obvious and well-known of the reasons why sexual intercourse should be avoided until marriage. Living in the day and society that we do, it is safe to say that teenage pregnancy is becoming more and more common. When I look around my school a see fellow peers seven or eight months pregnant, it hurts and concerns me to think about what our society is coming to. Having a younger sibling that is currently 17 months old, I know what it takes (to some degree) to take care of a child. Not only does the birth and care for a child require much time and energy, it also puts a heavy financial burden on the party involved. Due to time restraints imposed from the young child, many of these young couples have to drop out of high school to successfully balance their new hectic lives. Just this fact of dropping out of school is enough for me to worry about the fate of my generation; for how can one with no complete high school education ever follow his/her dreams to become who he/she truly wants to be? But the simple practice of abstinence can avoid all of these problems and thereby allow teens to strive to their fully potential.
Prevention, the second “P” of abstinence, refers more specifically to the prevention of sexually transmitted diseases, or STD’s. We all know what these conditions entail and sometimes these diseases are incurable or fatal. Of course, there is always the argument of using condoms or other protective measures, but it must be recognized that not only do these measures not guarantee protection from diseases, but they also do not prevent pregnancy (as already discussed earlier). Abstinence is not only a smart choice, but it is also a very safe choice in my opinion.
One cannot go wrong with this logic.
The final “P” of abstinence is pride, and often it is not associated with this subject. But truth be told, it is one of the most rewarding aspects of this choice. Holding true to abstinence myself, I can testify that the personal gratification of knowing that you are waiting and protecting your body for someone worthy is absolutely amazing. Showing self-control in life choices also boosts self-confidence and respect; two traits that will go far in life.
Life choices can be difficult at times, and often the people around in society do not make them any easier. However, it is comforting to know that there are always others out there who hold the same beliefs and commit to the same promises as yourself. One must also remember that often the most difficult choices to make, such as to remain abstinent, are the ones that are the most rewarding.
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