THE NUMBERS GAME

Don't believe what anybody tells you, size matters. It makes a difference in how a person perceives you, what they think about you, and what they feel safe doing with you. Your number could make all the difference in the world. It could instill confidence and trust or it could bring doubt and destruction. What number am I talking about? Your sex partner number.

We live in a day and age where having sex is akin to shaking hands. Some people go out to meet someone new with full intentions of having sex with them. This is incredibly dangerous when you consider the numbers on STD's (25%, 1 out of every 4). It is equally dangerous when you consider the long term emotion impact such behavior can have.

There are many different theories on what is acceptable sexual behavior among the sexes. For men it's easy. Have sex with as many women as you can. End of story. However, the theories on women are much different. As liberal as folks say they are it's hard for a woman to overcome the stigma of sleeping around.

I have one friend that holds to the belief that a woman having sex with her boyfriend is acceptable. That sounds OK in theory. However, when you consider that people can have multiple "boyfriends" in a years time. That number can get real high real quick. I don't care how you characterize those relationships at some point there can be no explanation for those high stats.

I knew a woman in college that reported 27 different partners by age 19. That is some serious activity at such a young age. Sadly, I don't think her report is all that uncommon. What man can deal with that high number? How could he ever feel special? He will likely feel like the next one in line. Not a good look.

I will only touch on the impact such behavior can have on future relationships. The comparisons, the thoughts, the burn out on sex (one becomes bored when you've done everything with everybody). The shame associated with such activity is another issue. And like I said before, God forbid that you contract an STD. Game over...or not depending on your conscience.

This is an issue I'm running into with women. At this age it's hard to find women that don't have crazy miles on them. I'm sure women have that problem too. With all the disease that's out in the world it's hard not to have that in the back of your mind. Truly safe sex is one of the benefits of a dedicated marriage. Plus, I think women that have a lot miles have a lot of emotional baggage on them. It's just too much. The numbers game is crazy. Stop while your ahead. If you can't stop, at least slow down long enough to get the first and last name.