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Sex education must go beyond abstinence

May 14, 2008

Letters to the Editor

• Sex education must go beyond abstinence

Abstinence is an answer but not the answer. Abstinence is a good idea, but it is irresponsible not to let our children know the whole truth about sex.

I believe we would see a great change in teen pregnancy rates if we would just be honest and open about sex to our children. Abstinence may be a great idea on paper, but reality dictates that despite your feelings about what is right and wrong about premarital sex, folks are going to continue to do this. It has happened since the beginning of time and you may speak about "God's law," but I am afraid that the law of nature overrules in this case.

If you are able to abstain until you are married, that is wonderful and that is your choice, as is your religious belief, but we don't all subscribe to the same beliefs. Give out condoms as well as good advice, tell your kids everything, and you will not regret it.

It would be a shame if your son got AIDS or herpes or a girl pregnant because you did not believe in premarital sex. The problem lies with your children and whether they believe in premarital sex.

AIMEE EISIMINGER

Columbia