But as of last year, I’ve been questioning where I stand when it comes to abortion. I do believe that all forms of life should be given a chance and that even the smallest form of life is a human being. But at the same time, I believe that women should have that decision on what they chose to do with their bodies. I believe that abortions will probably never be outlawed. And frankly, I think it shouldn’t. Being in AP Government, I was able view the argument from a constitutional stance. Making abortion illegal would be a violation of privacy rights; which is something I strongly stand against.

I’ve been leaning toward pro-choice lately. But at the same time, a part of me is still pro-life. I feel guilty when I admit to myself that I find abortions reasonable. I somewhat feel that I should be pro-life since I was raised as a Catholic. Last weekend, my friends from San Francisco and Pacifica area invited me to attend this year’s Walk for Life last Saturday (Jan. 21). Since I missed their company, I gave it some thought. I decided to digress from the thought of going since I had changed my view on abortion. I felt it would be wrong to stand up for something that I had opposing opinions on.

I think my tendency to be an empathetic person is the cause behind my contradictory thoughts. Understanding both sides is something I find important. I once read this thing on Tumblr once, it was a screenshot of a Facebook post saying something like “You can’t be pro-choice and Catholic”. When I read it, I was mad. Not because I had a personal tie to it, but because I found it ignorant. Its like saying you can’t own a dog because you’re part of the cat lover’s club or something. I personally don’t think I’m a hypocrite for having my own opinions. I go to church, pray the rosary, believe in God, and keep the faith. I’m pretty sure that makes me Catholic.

Anyways, despite my rambles, I stand somewhere between pro-life and pro-choice. I’m sure there’s other people who share my feelings. But if anyone asks, I’m both.

“Yeah, it’s definitely really hard, but its one of the most important aspects you need to get ready for the upcoming season,” Senior Dominic Cesena said.

When a wrestler is not fit for the season there can be terrible results as they will start very sluggish and slow. This will have an important impact on their ability to take down their opponents. Senior Waleed Salemi uses a strict diet to maintain his weight and build more muscle. ”I try to eat things that are packed with protein, such as eggs” said Waleed. Waleed also spends a lot of time lifting weights and exercising to convert the protein he eats into muscle. “A diet is only half of the struggle” he says. However, the struggle to lose weight and build muscle has its benefits. Wrestling is a sport that is built around strength and size as it will allow wrestlers to effectively take down opponents. Waleed also says that it allows him to get him in shape and live a healthier life. Conditioning for wrestling has started well before the season has started and continues throughout the season. It is proving to be effective as our team has been very successful this year.

Photo by Shivanjali Sewak.

A beluga whale at SeaWorld.

More information about the contest is in this article.

Video performance provided by Patricia Desantores.

Profile created by Janel Quoc and Ninon Becquart.

Photos and interview by Janel Quoc and Ninon Becquart.

Song “Just the Way You Are & Teenage Dream Medley” by CJ, Shar & Patricia.