AlexShalman.comPractical Personal Development

This article is part of the How To Become An Outstanding Person In Twelve Weeks series. I strongly urge that you read the first article in order to get a sense of what is going on here.

Chastity (Week 12 of 12)

Chastity. Rarely use venery but for health or offspring, never to dullness, weakness, or the injury of your own or another’s peace or reputation. Chastity is generally defined as either complete purity, or no premarital sex. One thing I did learn about Benjamin Franklin is that he had sex, and lots of it. So why did he make chastity as one of his virtues? What are the real benefits of chastity?

It is my belief that what Benjamin Franklin meant, in terms of chastity, was to not have sex for the wrong reason. Sex itself it not the problem, but a great way for people to connect, to experience pleasure, and to relieve sexual energy.

One way to not use sex inappropriately would be to the point where you disrespect someone. If it’s done in a mature, passionate way, without hurting anyone physically or emotionally, than it’s not a bad thing at all.

Religious views on sex may have something to add to this. I believe that part of the religious focus on no premarital sex is to avoid certain complications, such as diseases and unexpected pregnancy.

So, my opinion on this chastity virtue, and how I currently plan to apply it towards my own life is: be safe and make it great.

Becoming Outstanding Series

• How To Become An Outstanding Person In Twelve Weeks

• Week 01 – Temperance

• Week 02 – Silence

• Week 03 – Order

• Week 04 – Resolution

• Week 05 – Frugality

• Week 06 – Industry

• Week 07 – Sincerity

• Week 08 – Justice

• Week 09 – Moderation

• Week 10 – Cleanliness

• Week 11 – Tranquility

• Week 12 – Chastity