Waiting Until Marriage

Art by McKenzie M.

A relationship is defined as the emotional and sexual connection of two people; however, today, the the actions that constitute a relationship can mean so many different things.

Growing up in a very religious and strong household Clarine* was taught the importance of saving sex for marriage and so when she started dating Bill* freshman year she made sure that that value still held true.

“We talked when we first started dating, we just set down ground rules … and we both agreed that since we are both so religious that it would be best if we didn’t have sex,” said Clarine.

Religion was the main factor behind their decision to abstain, but they also prefer to focus on strengthening their emotional connection to one another. “My religious values dictate that [sex] should only be between married couples,” said Bill.

Some conflict among peers has come from their decision but the couple will not waver from their core beliefs. “Often people will ask me if I’ve ‘scored that’ or they tell me I should ‘tap that,’ but once I tell them about my religious beliefs they back off,” said Bill.

Throughout the obstacles they have faced in their two year long relationship Bill and Clarine find comfort in each other and how strong their emotional connection is.

“He’s like my best friend so we hang out all the time and… I just love spending time with him because he’s such a great person,” said Clarine.

As they struggle with their decision they remember the ramifications early sex has. “I have friends who do have sex and I think that it stresses them out a lot because they’re always worried that they are pregnant or ‘oh my gosh what if he leaves me and we’ve had sex’ so I think it just causes unnecessary stress for a high school relationship,” said Clarine.

The couple is mature enough to know that the choice is for them to make, and they believe that, in order to have a safe and special first time, by saving themselves for marriage they will prosper.

“God is in our body and our bodies are His temple so if we let someone disrespect His temple it’s just not right,” said Clarine.
The couple has no regrets or doubts for abstaining and are very willing to wait to explore the sexual side of their relationship until ready.