chastened

In a recent trip to the library, I ran across this book called "Chastened." Immediately struck by its title, I decided to pick it up. (It probably also doesn't help that I work at a crisis pregnancy center and am thereby automatically interested in the topic.)

Well, come to find out, this is a very interesting story. The author, disenfranchised with casual sex, decided to remain abstinent for a year. As the subtitle explains, this book is the "story of (her) year without sex."

Anderson, a young non-Christian Englishwoman, began to realize that her relationships were unfulfilling. She was nearing her 30th birthday and the last man who told her that he loved her was her college sweetheart, who was her "first." Since then, her relationships have left her feeling as if something was lacking. So, in an effort to reclaim intimacy, she took out what some may feel is the most intimate act of all--sex.

I haven't gotten very far in the book, but so far it has been a good read. I have enjoyed reflecting upon the observations of someone whose decision is far removed from faith or upbringing. She simply was dissatisfied and wanted to make a change. Could it be that our culture would get to a point where more and more people become just as fed up?

Coming from a faith perspective myself, I have always been taught in church that you should save sex for marriage, that it was meant to be between a husband and a wife. I was also taught that the reason for this wasn't just because God didn't want you to experience all the good things life has to offer, but rather that He has a better way for us. His rules are meant to protect and offer us the best way of living. I believe that Anderson may just be proving His point. And maybe, just maybe, others will join her.