I must admit this is sometimes difficult, but I’m getting the hang of it.
When I have to write an article, however, relating to new changes in the Sexual Offences Amendment Bill, I really can’t help but have an opinion.
I was, quite frankly, flabbergasted when I first received the information and realised that consenting children between the age of 12 and 15 can now legally have sex.
I’m not completely naive, I do realise that sex between youngsters is not a new thing.
Sadly, they have always and probably will always experiment.
But to basically give them permission and say, “Hey, go out there and have fun! There will be no consequences from a legal perspective!”
How insanely ridiculous is this?
What, I ask you, does a 12-year-old know about intimacy and the consequences of sexual acts?
And how on earth are they given the freedom to decide what is right or wrong regarding such a serious matter that could have life-altering repercussions?
At that age, many are still deciding whether they want the newest toy or a new rugby ball or whatever the case may be.
How is it they are allowed to face this massive choice that even most adults are not completely capable of handling?
What do they know about agreeing to sex and what lies thereafter?
Isn’t there already an abundance of teenage pregnancy?
This is where sexual education has never been more important, but this matter also raises other issues.
Educating them too early may lead to curiosity of the subject and, in turn, further exploration.
But then again, educating them too late may lead to disastrous consequences because, how could they know better?
It’s a very fine line for parents to tread, but the responsibility now, as always, lies with them to teach their children what is right and what is wrong.
Tell them and even show them what their decisions might lead to.
I don’t mean force or tell them what they will and will not do, but enlighten and advise, teach them morals, give them ideals and goals and know that they are in full control of making the decision themselves when placed in that situation.
Parents have to step up as the law takes a step back.
