[PSY]

I'm saving myself until marriage, for numerous reasons.

1. Religion (pretty straight-forward)

2. Emotional reasons. I'm currently in a long-distance relationship with my boyfriend. If, for some reason, I ended up regretting the loss of my virginity, then we wouldn't be able to work through the problem as effectively as we could, if we were living together or living near one another. That in itself could end the relationship... and I'd rather avoid that scenario.

3. I like the idea of saving myself for "the one"... and in my mind, they're not REALLY "the one" until you're married to them.

4. I know how effective birth control (hormonal and barrier methods) are... but it's NOT 100%. I know that I could never go through with an abortion. I also know that I could never go through with an adoption. And finally, I would not be willing to put my life on hold in order to raise a child. Not yet... not until I'm married. This line is reasoning is probably the main reason why I'm saving myself until marriage.

5. Financial reasons. I don't want to support a child, unless I'm financially secure. That means having a husband, who's employed and dedicated to our family, to pay for the bills while I raise our child. Having a boyfriend who pays child support isn't good enough... I want that higher level of commitment.

Well, there you have it. =P Phew!

P.S. - Moving this to "Sex and Puberty". The topic definitely relates to relationships/marriage, but the focus appears to be more on individuals' decisions/preferences regarding sexual activity.