The complexities of human sexuality play a vital role in the lives of every person and everything they do. It is imperative first to understand that this is a topic that focuses on every aspect of humans as sexual beings. Some of the areas that are widely covered by this notion include sexual identity, desires, feelings, sexual health and wellbeing, intimate relationships, goals and even the way people perceive and express sexual feelings towards each other. Through the lessons learned in this class, I have become knowledgeable about my sexuality through the study of human sexuality and that will enable me to lead a better and sexual lifestyle. I have come to know the person that I am and the so many things I like and those I do not want as well as how important it is to plan ahead. And the most important lesson learned is that a sexual philosophy is important in everyone’s life because it leads to an individual developing a personal set of morals and even values that pertain to sexual issues.
It is paramount that every responsible human being develops their morals and values when it comes to matters of their sexuality. But before one gets to that, they get accustomed to the moral code of conduct instituted by society and taught to a child by their parents, guardians and other people with whom they relate as they grow (Hock 5). For instance, I have grown up seeing society teach against infidelity or promiscuity between people who are romantically or sexually involved with one another. But there are times when I have seen people abuse that moral teaching by sexually becoming involved with other people. That has often led me to question the viability or practicality of such a teaching. But at the same time, I have learned that rules are to be obeyed, and if they have been formulated, then they are meant to serve the common good of society. My moral values influence how I go about issues relating to my sexuality, and sometimes I feel it is the moral responsibility of everyone to live by the widely acknowledged rules.
Even if people were expected to follow a particular sexual code of conduct, they are also permitted to exercise their sexuality in a manner that shows their independence and a sexual life that fulfills their needs. If that does not happen, it will seem as though they are living a life that they do not like and that will make them feel trapped. Lessons learned in this class give a different perspective to human sexuality where nobody is victimized or is said to be in the wrong while the actions of others are justified. The lessons were an eye opener to the fact that people can formulate belief systems that make sense to them, and ones that make them feel right. That only means that in a democratic society where the rights and privileges of everyone are respected. There is so much to do in as far as human sexuality and diversity are concerned but then everyone is expected to act responsibly so as to avoid instances where people regret their actions because they did not make the right decisions (Hock7). Just like everyone else, I am expected to be in charge of my sexuality and not my sexuality is supposed to be in charge of me.
Also, everyone is supposed to make responsible choices and practice sexual morals and values that enhance life and not destroy it. For instance, religion and even the American societal morals determine that any married person is supposed to stay faithful to their spouses. If one decides to go against such a moral teaching, then they will be forced to think about what their mates will think if they found out, how their community will perceive them if they found out or even how the children will react to their action or even make a decision whether they can be in a position to handle consequences of their actions in as far as contracting diseases such as HIV and Aids are concerned. From such a perspective, it becomes imperative that anyone engages in dialogue within themselves so as to establish whether it is worth it to engage in sexual intercourse outside of their marriages. Making decisions that center on quenching sexual desires or avoiding that solely lies on the individual, and that forms the basis of their belief system when it comes to matters of sexual needs. One needs to consider the feelings and attitudes of others, and if their conscience permits them, then they can go ahead with their actions. The good thing is that society is becoming more tolerant to sexual matters that were considered taboo, and as long as people get the freedom to do all they wish to then all will be termed as right. As long as there is no abuse or infringement of the rights and privileges of others, then there is no problem with meeting one’s sexual needs or desires using any means available.
I have come to appreciate that sex is not all about intercourse and that there are so many things that are pleasurable that can make intimacy and romantic involvement more fulfilling. Traditionally, when one talks about sex, the only thing that comes to mind is sexual intercourse. That perspective locks out many other sexual behaviors that lead to satisfaction. Some of these arousing and pleasurable activities are kissing, touching, caressing, masturbation, oral sex and even massaging (Hock 7). By understanding that there is so much one can do to sexually fulfilled and satisfied, it becomes clear that men and women should not be worried about that they can do to avoid some of the unpleasant aftermaths of sexual intercourse. For example, women, especially those who are unmarried worry about becoming pregnant if they do not practice safe sexual intercourse. Men and women alike worry about contracting sexually transmitted diseases. I have become knowledgeable about the many options available for me and any other person, especially when it comes to leading a sexually fulfilling life without having to worry about some of the negative effects of sexual intercourse. After all, homosexuals and lesbians have a way of engaging in sex without sexual penetration or intercourse.
Taking full responsibility for someone’s life is one of the most important or paramount things to do. Everyone craves for a satisfying sexual life, one who fulfills their sexual desires and needs. In fact, sexual health is as important as social, emotional and physical health. Many are the times when people lead an unhealthy sexual life out of “embarrassment, denial, or lack of knowledge and information about sexual health issues or symptoms”(Hock 15). That happens in societies where sex and sexual matters are largely considered taboo and human sexuality is not a subject of open debate or discussion. Parents are not permitted to talk to their children about sexual matters, and spouses are not supposed to talk about it. But one critical lesson I have learned from this lesson is that children need to be taught about sex from very early on life. Parents play a vital role in imparting knowledge and skills in their children from very early on in life as children tend to listen more and take instructions from their parents. Communication between parents and children should be open so that it encourages communication on sexual matters between the two groups.
In conclusion, it is evident that human sexuality is an important paradigm of human life, and it needs to be incorporated in the general wellbeing of everyone. When people have the right information about it, it becomes easy for them to make informed and responsible decisions and choices on how to go about their sexual relations and behavior (Hock 18). At an individualized level, I have learned how important it is for me and everyone else to come up with sexual philosophies that will enhance life and make sexual relationships and actions more fulfilling. As long as one does things that are sexually fulfilling, then they will be happy. Sometimes others might go out of the expectations of society, and that means they devise their pleasurable ways that give them sexual fulfillment. How else could society come to accept homosexuals and lesbians if they never came out clean about their sexual desires! Even if one has to break the rules, it does not matter as long as they act within the boundaries of the federal law, if the law does not permit them then, they can try doing what they believe is right, and that may lead to attitude change by society.
Work Cited
Hock, Roger R. Human Sexuality. 3/e. Pearson: Upper Saddle River, 2012. Print
