Gender and dating relationships

In the article, the author questions traditional marriage stereotypes and questions the motive behind some modern marriages. In many ways, marriage has changed with society. Many couples see marriage as a party rather than a sacrament. I agree with the author that couples should discuss marriage plans together rather than wait for "the right time." Many women build up so much anticipation for the perfect proposal or perfect wedding. Both the proposal and the wedding should be about love, not perfection. At the same time, I think many traditions should be kept when it comes to marriage. I think many men would see a proposal coming from their girlfriend as a threat to their manliness. I do not think most women would care if a proposal was not perfect. If they love the person proposing, they will say yes anyway. My mom told me I should pick whatever last name is better of the two when I get married. If you decide to pass two last names on to your children and then they get married, will they have triple hyphenated last names? It does not matter what your last name is. It does not change who you are. 
The love story of my parents was not focused on perfection; it was focused on love. It can be easy for some people to lose sight of what is really important. My parents work as a team. They both cook, clean, and work. I do not think gender roles play a vital part in our house. My parents encourage me to do whatever I want. I know they fell in love for the right reasons and cared less about wedding planning and more about begin together.  

Wonderful Gift and Awesome Responsibility

I am familiar with the church’s message about human sexuality. I know the church has high moral values and teaches that sexual intercourse is for married couples. I agree with the Bishop that sexuality is a big responsiblity and truly is a gift from God. I was surprised that the article mentioned the church’s view on homosexuality. I was not expecting the article to express the church’s opinions for gays and lesbians. Many church leaders have pushed homosexuals away from the church and refuse to accept gay marriage. I think this article could be a little more modern. I think times have changed a great deal; people are not getting married at 15 anymore. In many cases, couples wait until they are in their thirties to have children so they can financially support them. I think the church should take into consideration the changing needs of our society.   

My Mission Statement

My mission is to live a life of hard work, service, and love. Hard work in my opinion is important for all people. Success does not come easy; one must never give up. Hard work leads people to appreciate what they have. Additionally, I am passionate about serving the less fortunate. Helping others is both rewarding and enjoyable. Service promotes unity and peace in communities. Finally, I will constantly give love to others. Without love, life does not hold much meaning. No person should ever feel unloved. I vow to give my time and energy into hard work, service, and love. I do not know where my life is headed but I know if I work hard, serve others, and love many, I will succeed.

The three factors that have affected my identity are my family, my dog, and my job. My family consists of one mother, one father, two sisters, and one dog. We certainly do not fall into the category of “normal.” My parents, Maam and Papa Joe, have given me everything I have needed thus far and then some. They keep me grounded as well as encourage me to “go big or go home.” Everything I have is because of their hard work and constant love. I didn’t start to get along with either of my sisters until they moved out of the house. With one devoting her life to religion and the other an avid atheist, I don’t exactly see eye to eye with them. Recently I have come to accept them rather than question them for what they are and what I am. It’s amazing that Maam and Papa Joe raised three kids with almost nothing in common.

That leaves the dog. With one sister in Boston, one in Pittsburgh, and parents that work long hours, I spend a lot of time with Pete. It really hurts me to see neglected or abused animals. Pete was adopted into our family from PAWS about 4 years ago when he was skinny, scruffy, and peppy. Though many disregard the power of animals, I truly believe this dog was sent to me when I needed him most. He has brought me so much joy and strength; I cannot imagine my life without him.

The third factor that has affected my life is my job. I have been babysitting Grace and Sofia after school four days a week, for the past year and a half. At three and four years old, these two little girls have no idea the affect they have on me. Whether I’m playing Dora the Explorer, going to the playground, or getting my toe nails painted, I can’t help but feel happy. Though there have been plenty of rough days (five o’clock is not a good time for kids), I have never left their house in a bad mood.