Our Voices
Forever Might Not Be Forever
My boyfriend and I had been dating for over a year. We were both in college. We hadn’t talked about marriage, but I assumed we would always be together. Then I learned I was pregnant.
John told his parents about the pregnancy. They said he was too young, that he should leave me and “just forget it happened.” John even told me he had been thinking about breaking up with me anyway.
I was absolutely devastated. I asked him if he could at least be there when our daughter was born, but he decided to travel to England to study and I was left alone.
I called John when my daughter was born, but he denied she was his and demanded a blood test. I never expected someone who said they loved me to leave me feeling so alone and abandoned.
— Kylie
Saving Sex — Jayden’s Story
Every person, no matter how well rooted they are in their values, gets tempted at one point or another―this is my story.
I went through high school without dating anyone, had strong morals and an innocent mind for the most part. I knew I wanted to save sex for marriage. These values were infused in me from my family. I dated my first girlfriend during my sophomore year of college and things started with hand holding and hugging. I learned about her past with an ex-boyfriend and that she had done somethings she regretted. I forgave her, but at the same time, I struggled and hated picturing her with another guy.
When we became ‘official,’ we made-out quite a bit and my desire to be more physical took over. As we focused on each other’s bodies, we crossed the line numerous times. It plagued my thoughts and I began to think, ‘If she was willing to do those things with another guy, would she do them with me?’ I became curious and began looking up sexual things and how to push her further in our physical relationship.
It was wrong and I knew it. But my body was taking over my mind. Several months passed and it became the only reason why I’d see her. When I was with her, all I thought about was, ‘How can I get what I want from her?’ It was a horrible poisoned mindset. I realized that I wanted out.
Eventually, after much soul-searching and guidance from family and friends, we ended our relationship. I apologized for how I hurt and mistreated her. I was humbled when she forgave me. It takes two, but I should have led with sexual integrity and real love. This leadership role is one I decided to strive for ever since. I took time to renew myself and learn how to live with integrity. And I’ve realized that it’s through pure motives and selfless actions that the best and greatest of relationships can thrive.
— Jayden