When I was fourteen and in middle school, I signed an abstinence pledge. I consciously made the choice to do so. Some of my classmates were pressured into doing so which is immensely wrong. Sex education when I was in middle school and in high school was more along the lines of a "scared straight" program than an informative program with facts. However, I was not scared into abstinence. It was what I wanted for myself.

Fast forward to high school, and I became a Christian. I knew that I wanted a romantic relationship that had Jesus at the center. My friends that were attached looked like they had wholesome relationships. Some of them wore purity rings to symbolize their promise. I knew I wanted one. For my sixteenth birthday, I got one, and I still wear it today. The ring reminds me that I have an example to set as a follower of Christ.

Once in a blue moon, I get a comment about my ring such as, "it's on the wrong finger." I wear it on my left ring finger. They change their minds once I tell them what the ring represents. I also feel like I have to tell people that I did, in fact, ask for the ring myself. I have also had a drunk family member ask if I was engaged and then, why I needed the ring. My answer as to why is it represents the promise I have made to God, my future husband, and myself to save myself for the right person and to guard my heart.

Additionally, I have never pushed my view of abstinence onto anyone as whatever people do in their bedrooms is their business. However, I am happy with my decision to wait. Sure, I crave intimacy like everyone else, but it's definitely worth the wait.