I was on Waikiki beach, thankful to sunbathe. In my twenties, I happily discovered that in the South of France you could lay out topless. What freedom! A freedom which still awaits America’s embrace.

Sexuality awaits America’s embrace, our acceptance and celebration. Sexuality, which is a natural part of ourselves, a part of our wholeness and oneness, a basic life force of birth and creation. Sexuality, which is playful, passionate, sensual and surrendering, which longs to be included.

    Sexuality may be embodied in many ways, it does not require body exposure nor imply nakedness. Muslim women, completely covered from head to toe, may express her sexuality through her eyes. Sexuality is about knowing, accepting, and appreciating yourself. In essence, you are connected to and comfortable in your own body, mind and spirit.

    Sexuality is controversial, and we have diversity in what is culturally acceptable. What is allowed by the tribe and what is disapproved of, forbidden, or criminalized? However, human beings are sexual beings, whether this part is hidden or undisguised, conscious of or oblivious to, pampered and paraded or left unattended and closeted.

    I grew up in a culture of modesty, an upbringing with little, if any, recognition or accentuation of sexuality. My father did not allow me to wear shorts to high school. I put on lipstick for the first time at age 30. 

     In healthcare, we understand the importance of raising girls with education and empowerment about her lovely feminine vessel, with love, acceptance and appreciation, and without shame, fear, or guilt. Thankfully, we are including sex education and birth control in school. Women understand her body to be her sovereign domain, and that it is her right to choose.

     What happens when we deny or suppress sexuality as a part of the human condition? Look what happened in the Catholic Church. I think that if the Catholic Church acknowledged and integrated this authentic part of human nature, it would have helped to prevent the horrific sex abuses by Priests. It seems to me that it would be a good idea for the Catholic Church to allow Priests to have sex with consenting adult partners. 

   Celibacy is simply not required for spiritual life in all cultures. Indeed, some believe sexual ecstasy leads to enlightenment. Tantra is one such ancient wisdom tradition which teaches techniques to expand consciousness. Sacred lovemaking is honored as a form of divine worship.

Everything in life is sacred, including our sexuality. Integrating our sexuality improves our lives, allowing us to be healthier, happier, and holier human beings. Every act of love is an act of creation. May we rise in love, and create beauty and goodness.