LUST vs. CHASTITY - Day 3

I am not at all surprised that men and women today are treated as sexual objects, as Disney princess, Jasmine, says, "prize(s) to be won".  Many individuals today are surprised when they are used or disrespected; but a simple reflection on their dress and attitude may reveal why.  Sometimes blatant, and sometimes very subtle, we live in a society where "love" and "sex" are used interchangeably.  Many people falsely assume, that if they are are viewed by others as "sexy" they have value; they are loved. If they are sexy, they will be rescued. This is one of the biggest lies out there.

Unfortunately, it is being perpetually propagated in the media from 'family' movies to x-rated movies, where the main guy and girl are stunningly gorgeous and usually dressed to accentuate the curves/muscles. These movies include scenes that supposedly are humorous, that bring attention to the body, to prove the characters are in love, and/or use the body to accomplish "the mission".  Though these works are often completely "fictional", the images and ideas that these characters and plots bring are harmful to the viewers' dignity.  The message mainly being: "it is okay to use your body or another's body to get what you want".

How narcissistic is that?

The old admonition, "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil" rings true today. As a society, we have seen/heard/spoken so much evil that immodestly and lust are not viewed as "harmful". Yet, there are so many more divorces, unfaithfulness/betrayal, broken hearts, insecurity, and suicides, because people long for love, but don't know what it looks like or how to give it.

Lots of money is spent on vanity. How does our hair look: are they cut/styled "cute", the right color? Are there blemishes/wrinkles on our faces? Can we walk outside without the perfect face? Who is it that we are trying to impress? Is it one person? Is it everybody? How insecure are we? How much do we value how others judge us? What image are we trying to sell?

Sure, some people may seem more willing to accept, flatter and flirt with us if we fit a modern "sexy" profile.  However, will this attention go away when we turn 40, when we gain weight, or are surrounded by others who exceed our sexiness?

Probably.

When love/value is measured by sexual attraction and not by integrity, commitment and values; it is often short lived and the person actually seeking love is hurt.

This is because the person(s) that we try to attract are shallow.

Likewise, if if we base our relationships on outward projections instead of responsible action, we are the shallow ones. If we don't value others for their character, personality and goals in life, why are we with them and what does that say about us?

Everybody wants "to ride off in the sunset and grow old together".

However, this ideal is not served on a platter. It takes integrity of individuals that includes unconditional commitment  -- something that extends way beyond external beauty.

Is the person you are with have a wandering eye? Do they invest in your hobbies or just your body? What are you selling to your "lover"? Or are you secure with yourself and with how he/she sees you? If he/she knew all your flaws, would they stay or flee? Vice versa would you flee?

How much does lust play in your judgements?