A Topic Worth Discussion

Every Thursday morning my alarm goes of around 4am. This is no different from any other morning but Thursdays are special. You see, for the past month and a half I have been a part of a book club that is reading a book about sex and chastity. (gasp) Yes, chastity. I can't begin to express the richness that comes from gathering regularly with this of group of women. After coming from these meetings,
one thing I notice is the stark contrast between folks who have an interest in discussing such topics and others who cover their ears in shame, embarrassment or whatever they're feeling when they hear the word "sex". Even if I don't agree with all of the author's points, some of her perspectives have offered me a different way of thinking. Which has been helpful as I navigate the waters of my own sexuality.

One thing that comes up in conversation is the fact that often times it is women who are the Enforcers of Morality and little self-control is exercised by men. As if women are solely responsible for the act of boundary setting and exercising restraint. In defense of men though, I have to say that I have witnessed men who are actually quite good at controlling their sexual desires and not sniffing around every corner looking for a new conquest. Well, maybe I only know one particular guy like that but if there is one there is hope! I'm pretty certain it would be hard to find groups of men gathering in the early morning hours to discuss their sexuality in relationship to God. Not that it's not possible or doesn't exist, I actually hope I'm wrong!
In my personal experiences I have always been the one initiating boundaries and bringing up the topic of sex and limitations. There comes a point when this wears me out. Sometimes I don't want to spend so much time and energy on the do's and don'ts; the legalism of sex has the propensity to reduce desire. Even more so, the fact that I feel like a broken record in every dating situation leads me to believe the the moral benchmark of men in my generation is worse than I thought. It would be awesome to see a man take this bold step and be the one in the relationship to initiate this conversation. I'm waiting for someone to prove me wrong ; someone who is willing to go against the norm and be comfortable enough in his own skin to explore the benefits and freedom of self-control.


Living Authentically,
G