I had a daughter at 15 and another at 21. I didn’t know anyone who was abstinent, nor did I know anything about waiting. Though I love my girls I wish I had. In addition to the emotional toll of broken relationships, it is difficult taking care of kids so young. I remember long nights, finding babysitters and worrying about money for years. My friends were traveling, going away to college and living care free for the most part, while I couldn’t make a move without first thinking of my kids. I rarely had extra money to even go to the movies.
I’d also say that sex was a way for affection and acceptance. Had I known my true value back then, that God loved me more – I’d have definitely waited…
Dorethia of Detroit
You are not alone, Dorethia. Many young women, including myself years ago, have made choices we regret. If these abstinence programs would have been available back then, I’m sure I would have made better decisions. Not having sex out of wedlock wasn’t even discussed in my church all those years ago; no purity ring ceremonies when I was young and thinkin’ I had to have a boyfriend because people made me feel like something was wrong with me if I didn’t.