A letter from a former student, now in the workplace . . .

May I tell you about my life?

I am surrounded by people, especially when I work days. There are guys everywhere, and they all want one thing. Sex. They brush past me, lightly touching some part of my body, neither by accident nor chance. These are calculated moves meant to seduce me. Their smiles are suggestive. Their words, full of themselves, are meant to entice.

I’m not sure why they think arrogance is attractive, but they do.

When I first got my job, straight out of college, I wanted to trust people and think well of guys. One in particular, an International about my age, asked me about my faith. We talked about Christianity not being TV preachers and money grubbing. His experience with Christians had left a bad taste, and I hoped my life would make a better impression. Near the end of our shift he asked for a ride home. I should have said no, but he only lived ten minutes out of my way and I wanted to show Christ’s love. Soon he was asking every night, and then he started asking for me. He would brush past me at work and poke me where I don’t want to be touched. I told him to stop, and when he didn’t I switched to a different shift. Eventually he got fired.

The people I worked with didn’t think much of it. They were used to it, and distinctions like “Christian” or “married” made little difference. It was understood that this is how guys are, and many of them went along with it, whether single, married, or Christian.

Girls are not blind. They see the glances, read the signals, and sense the intentions. So be careful what you’re doing, my brothers. A pure and holy reputation — especially for you who want to serve Christ — is worth protecting, no matter the cost. If you desire to live for Christ, cultivate a strong love for Him. Learn to honor and respect the women in your life. And run from even the appearance of evil. A good name is worth more than great riches. And it’s the one thing that will make an impression on your classmates and coworkers who assume guys all want the same thing.