Sexuality

 Age brings perspective and a sense of the flow of change. In the 1950’s, TV parents slept in separate beds, though my parents didn’t. The Catholic Church was my go-to place for teachings on marriage, divorce, premarital sex, contraception, masturbation, impure thoughts and homosexuality. Though the Church stood firm on its teachings on sexuality, the culture began to have its own ideas on sexual and marital relationships.

The Sexual Revolution seemed to happen first on the fringes of society, among the young. If homosexuality, pre-marital sex and sexual experimentation didn’t fully come out of the closet then, at least societal awareness did. Gradually these practices were represented, even if cautiously, in entertainment media. This took time, and it wasn’t without controversy. 

The Internet, social media and easy access to pornography have brought with them easy access to all kinds of sexual content. Media brings us images of what may be uncommon in our own experiences, the edgy and prurient.  All this, though, has not necessarily led to any healthier discussion of human sexuality. 

Now, each individual must ask: What is healthy sexual practice for me? What role does sexuality play in my life? How do love and intimacy relate to my sexual life? Answering these questions doesn’t come from rules because sexuality is too personal. It comes from personal values, proper education, guidance, open conversation and responsible decision making.