Going into high school, dating becomes part of everyday life and deciding the boundaries for relationships is a major part of growing together.
Junior Lily Williamson*, just recently ended a two-year relationship with her first love, he was also her first time.
“It was my decision to finally have sex, my ex never pressured me into anything,” Williamson said.
Sex is often the cause of unnecessary drama and heartbreak when the maturity level isn’t there.
“Sex changed us,” Williamson said. “But it didn’t break us.”

From kissing to sex and everything in between, relationships can take an emotional toll on teenagers, but teens should always think before they act and be smart about their decisions.

“It’s not fun to worry if you’re going to have your period or not,” Williamson said.
Senior Jude Lovelace* bases his decisions on his strong morals and faith by remaining abstinent until marriage.
“Hookups are great but lack intimacy,” Lovelace said. “ I need something more substantial.”
Many times hormone-charged teenagers are blinded by lust and just aren’t levelheaded enough to make well-based decisions such as who they sleep with.
“Thoughts are put aside and replaced with lust,” Lovelace said. “But every experience has helped me become the person I am today.”
Every student has their own story with high school relationships; whether good or bad, they are essential in helping teenagers learn from their mistakes and helping them grow into young adults.
“Sex is a major commitment on a physical, spiritual, and emotional level,” Pediatrician Dr. Terry Johnson said.
Having sex isnt just something to do for fun. It can also come with many consequences.
“If you say you’re ready for sex,” Dr. Johnson said. “Then you are saying you’re ready for all of its responsibilities.”
You also should be comfortable as your own person and to know who you are.
“If your own identity isn’t fully developed, you get mixed up with the other person,” Dr. Johnson said.
Williamson said her relationship was a life lesson.
“I don’t regret any of my decisions,” Williamson said, “because regret is a waste of time.”
*Indicates anonymous name