Gender and Dating Relationships

I agree and disagree with some points in the article.  I do believe that modern society is changing substantially when it comes to dating and gender. Women are called to take control of the future of relationships. Men are looking at women to take the initiative. I think that this is a good step forward in the world of dating and relationships. However, I feel that some men may feel emasculated if women ask their partners to marry them. Call me old-fashioned but I want the man in the relationship to propose to ME, not vice versa. I don't think I would feel comfortable asking someone to marry me. A man getting down on one knee and producing a ring is a true expression of love to me. I think that is truly every girl's fairy tale.
I agree with Andy's discussion of open communication and trust in a relationship. I mean, who would actually get engaged without speaking seriously about it first? Getting married is a huge deal. You are committing yourself and your love to one person for the rest of your lives (hopefully). Marriage is not to be taken lively. You must be in a relationship where no secrets are hidden from your partner. You have to sit down and seriously think about your future together.

The article by Richard Sparks shed light on some new ideas and discussed some things that I was already aware of. For instance, I already knew that the act of sexual intercourse and sexuality itself are considered gifts, which both require a great deal of responsibility.  Additionally, I was aware that the Church looks down upon pre-martial and outside-of-marriage sex.  However, I was not aware that the Church advises against using birth control. I feel as though this is something that should be changed. Not everyone who is married wants to have children and should have the option to not procreate. I also believe that their policies on reproductive processes, such as in vitro fertilization and surrogate motherhood, should definitely be altered. It does not seem fair to married couples that would like to have children, but physically cannot. Counseling and therapy is not a good enough alternative for couples that wish to bear and raise a child or children. Finally, I was not aware of the church's policies regarding homosexuals. The article states that a person may have a homosexual orientation, but cannot act upon this orientation sexually. Acting sexually with a person of the same sex in considered morally wrong.

My Mission Statement
I will always try to be the best person I can possibly be. This means being constantly determined, open-minded, and willing to push myself. I will explore my limits and I will not allow challenges to set me back.  My potential is limitless. I will also learn to appreciate how fortunate I truly am and never take any opportunity for granted.  I promise to learn from my mistakes. I will always try to be honest with myself and others. I will be willing to listen for God's calling for me and I will embrace each new day with a positive attitude.

Who Am I?

Over the years, I have met many people and been exposed to new experiences. These factors have helped me develop as a strong individual. One of the most important factors in shaping who I am is my family. Since I was little, my mother and father have created an environment in my home that has allowed me to express myself. They have encouraged my creativity to flourish and always put up with my often crazy antics. I owe my confidence to them, as they have always believed in me and supported my endeavors.

The next factor that has defined me as an individual is crew.  Before coming to Mount, I never thought I would ever row. My sister warned me not to join the team (she referred to them as cult). However, the crew team is nothing like a cult. It is an atmosphere in which I am constantly discovering how strong I am. My coaches always push me to my limits, mentally and physically. Since the time I made the team in freshmen year, I have noticed how mentally strong I have become. I feel as though I have the power to do anything that is thrown in my way. I am more open to accepting challenges now.

The final factor that has shaped me was my trip to Peru last winter. Not only was I immersed in a completely new culture, I was also exposed to extreme poverty. Many Peruvian people live with very little material belongings. It was such an eye-opening experience for me. I became so grateful of what I had and realized how fortunate I am. The experience definitely humbled me.