Ofrendas

If others can have it, why can’t I? The importance of contraceptive knowledge.

Liz is a teenager in highschool, she’s a great student, cheerleader and overall a great person. She never caused trouble and complied with her parents’ rules, including not passing bed times, not being alone with her boyfriend, keeping up her good grades etc. Her parents did not really like the idea of Liz having a boyfriend at such a young age. They believed being a junior in highschool was far too young to be in a serious relationship; she should worry about having her own goals as well as having school be her number one priority. Liz on the other hand was lovestruck by her fella. She was at the top of the world when she was with him, she never felt this feeling before. 

At home Liz never had the conversation with her parents about birth control or any contraceptives. She often was met with a stern look and reminder that no decent girl would sleep with a boyfriend, instead wait for her future husband. Her parents were religious, never falling to remind her that is a sign to have intercourse before marriage. Liz on the hand was ready for this conversation. She and her boyfriend were ready for the next step, yet Liz felt as if she would seek for more information from her teachers because she was not able to get it at home. 

Liz and her boyfriend both decided to take advantage of the school and speak to the nurse. The nurse gave them simple information but urged them to make a visit to planned parenthood. She made sure to let them know everything is kept a secret and would not be told to their parents. Liz felt a bit of guilt. She knew her parents wouldnt be okay with it, especially going behind their back, but she felt this was right for her. 

Her and her boyfriend went in a couple days later and felt reassurance from everyone who worked their. EVeryone was so sweet and open to answer her questions. Her doctor understood her issues at home, and let her know it was okay to think about it. SO she took a pamphlet home and decided to think what was best for her. 

When she got home her mother noticed the paper on her daughter’s desk. Instantly feeling anger and concern, she went ahead and yelled at her daughter. Calling her names and making her feel as if she had done the worst thing ever. Instead of reacting back, she took the hits from her mother and after speaking that this was her decision, she was doing this for no one but herself. No matter what belief her parents had or what anyone else had to say, she simply knew it was a decision she wanted to make for herself. 

Liz later went in to get contraceptives and made sure it was the right one for her body. She understood her mother would never approve, but she was doing what was best for her. Not everyone will understand, but its not their job to, its what is best for you.

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