HOPE in the Classrooms - Dating

ATLAS Ministry, through its HOPE Youth Initiative, is teaching in six Greene County schools, both public and private. The messages are powerful and positive attitude changes are being seen. A recent lesson in SOUL MATE, the 12th grade course, is not only valuable to Seniors in high school, but is a great reminder to all. According to the CDC, 43% of all first marriages end in divorce within fifteen years. In order for a marriage to survive, we believe a major focus has to be on “being” the right person and not just “finding” the right person.

What are the issues that lead to this staggering statistic?

Dating couples should be aware of common traps:

• Believing that finding Mr. or Ms. Right will lead to happiness in one’s life is a trap. No one person will ever live up to another’s expectations and ultimate happiness cannot be found in another person.
• Moving too quickly in a relationship as other friends begin to get married. The fear of loneliness can’t be a driving force that leads to marriage.
• Believing that “young love” will conquer all. It is essential for a couple to be sure they are compatible before marrying. Take the time to make sure you can live with the best and worst traits. It should never be assumed that one person has the ability to change another. You can only change yourself.
• Participating in premarital sex. For a dating couple, sex never clarifies the relationship. It only clouds it. It can create a physical desire that covers a lack of emotional commitment.

The Heritage Foundation, Center for Data Analysis found that sexually active teenage girls are three times more likely, and teenage boys two times more likely, to struggle with depression and suicidal thoughts. Sex is a glorious gift within the confines of marriage.