Today is World Contraception Day! Time to take the kids that know about how babies are made aside, and talk about how to prevent babies, as well as the spread of disease.

Despite what many in politics and religion might say, the way to stop abortion isn't to stop mating, but rather to teach, to educate, and to make sure that all peoples not only are very choosy of their partners, and wait until there is a firm relationship with a deep and abiding love before engaging in physical intimacy, but ALSO to use a form of contraception, every time, unless they want a baby.

If we do it right, and teach thoroughly enough, our youth will, no matter their marital status, or our own parental dislike of their actions, at least protect themselves from pregnancy and disease if they do what we'd much rather they not.

And they'll use protection on instinct, as if there were no other choice but to do so when intimate.

If we teach them that it is the only way to be intimate, the only way to be safe, the only way to live their lives, and that nearly everyone uses contraception, but that it is those who don't that make us have to worry about diseases as well as pregnancy, then it will make a difference.

Studies have shown that abstinence-only education doesn't work at all to quell the spread of disease, and the ever-rising teen pregnancy rate. Sarah Palin's daughter is only a more high-profile example of this fact, and I'm sure Mrs. Palin is quite the devoted mother who taught her children all about abstinence, repeatedly.

But studies have also shown that abstinence education, along with a strong sense of self-respect, and knowledge of contraception if something does occur, is the best weapon against unwanted pregnancy and STIs.

When fighting a battle, is it not best to use all safe weapons at our disposal and ensure an even better chance of success?

There is no substitute for knowledge, for being prepared, just in case, no matter what or who you think your children are. One little moral mishap, no matter what your beliefs, or how strong they are, and your child too could be a parent before graduation. Don't you owe it to them to teach them the truth, so they may protect themselves if they stray from the straight and narrow path?

Is it not a parent's most sacred duty to raise their children to be strong in their morals and faith, while keeping them safe from harm? If you did not believe in driving a car, would you refuse to tell your child not to run out into the street?

By merely teaching those you love about protection, contraception, self respect, personal honor, and abstinence. Only with all of the tools available without fear, without shame, and without judgment, can we have a chance of keeping our children safe, and for those for whom it is an issue, making abortion virtually disappear.

For more information on World Contraception Day, including a quiz to help you find your ideal form of contraception, straight facts about the different forms of contraception available in these times, videos, and information and tips for the media, teachers, teens, and parents, please visit the official World Contraception Day 2008 website.

What you don't know can hurt you.

Please don't let it hurt your kids.