Tuesday, September 25, 2012

Gender and Dating Relationships

I think that this article presented a good points regarding marriage. Often couples can be overly concerned with the superficial aspects of their relationship, such as proposals and weddings. The author emphasizes that many women have high expectations about proposals and weddings that are superficial and unrealistic. He also discussed how many women expect men to propose before even talking about marriage with one another and expect to be surprised when proposed to. I agree that a couple should discuss and reflect upon whether they are ready or in love enough to be married. However, I do not believe that all the "traditional proposals" the author discussed are ridiculous and outdated. I don't think that having a "traditional proposal" means that a couple is superficial or not serious about their love. I agree that maybe some may put all their energy on the proposal or wedding and not really consider if they are compatible with their partner or if they are ready for a lifelong commitment. I believe that every couple is different and if a woman wants to propose or keep her last name then that is her decision. I also agree that women should expect some elaborate proposal, but I also don't think that there is any harm in a man proposing in a traditional way.In my parents' love story, my dad proposed in a "traditional way" and my parents planned their wedding like most couples. My mom was not completely expecting the proposal, but she knew that my dad was the only one for her. This perhaps traditional love story may seem cliché, but it is one that suited my parents. I believe every couple has different approaches to love, engagements, and marriage. No one way is right so long as the couple truly loves one another and has reflected about their commitment rather than focus on certain exciting events in their relationship.

Thursday, September 13, 2012

Wonderful Gift and Awesome Responsibility

The Catholic Church explains that we are given a universal vocation to love and be loved and that sexuality is a part our personality. Through sexuality we "experience our relatedness to self, others, the world and even God." Sexuality is gift that we should treasure and respect. The Church also explains that sexuality is an awesome responsibility entrusted to the steward and can be a challenge seeing as there is potential for misuse. Sexuality has many dimensions including physical, emotional, and spiritual. St. Paul says that True love is patient and kind, not self-seeking. The Church says that chastity, but not suppression of sexual feelings, is the most effective way to remain responsible and appropriate. The Church says that sex is an action with both unitive and procreative dimensions. Sex is both an extension of marriage and biologically used to procreate within marriage. Outside of marriage bishops conclude that sex is morally wrong. Although the Church recognizes the challenges a single person may have regarding chastity,the Church believes that sex should only be within marriage. The Church also believes that, while homosexuals can not chose their orientation, they should not have intercourse. I struggle to understand why the Church accepts that some people have a homosexual orientation, but condemn them acting upon their orientation. However, I believe it is good that the church talks openly about the positive attributes of having sex within marriage rather than condemn sexuality all together or depicting it as dirty.

Monday, September 10, 2012

Mission Statement

I will be compassionate and understanding to others. I will be honest to others and myself and learn to trust others and myself. I will listen to my passions and not fear failure or criticism. I will keep an open mind and welcome new ideas, cultures, and people. I will always strive to do my best and work diligently. I realize that progress takes time and I will be patient with myself. I will remember that to serve others is more satisfying than serving myself and support those around me. I am grateful for my life.

Sunday, September 9, 2012

Who Am I

My family, friends, and school have shaped my identity over the years. Being the middle child of my eclectic family has helped define who I am today. Being the middle child, I have taken a very specific role within my family. I am often the family member my siblings go to when they need advice. I always leave my door open to them and as a result, I am a good listener. As the middle child I am also generally the sibling who settles the disputes between my other siblings. Each member of my family has a distinct personality and I have learned from each member. My dad is hard working and has taught me to study diligently and always do my best. My mother sets rules for me and has taught me responsibility. My older sister has taught me to be independent. My older brother has taught me to be kind to everyone and my younger sister's creativity has helped me learn to think outside the box.
My friends have also helped me shape who I am. All my friends are incredibly supportive of what I do from coming to my Acadram shows to wishing me happy birthday. Their support has taught me to be just as good friend to them as they are to me. My friends and I are always there for one another whether someone is facing a challenge or celebrating.
Going to the Mount has also shaped my identity. An all girls education has helped me learn to think for myself and to express my ideas. The Mount has taught me not to be afraid of speaking my mind or standing up for my beliefs. The Mount has challenged me and supported me. I have learned important values such as responsibility and honesty. Here I have wonderful memories that I will carry with me throughout my life.