To cheat or not to cheat!Can u relate?

Kimesha Henry, Gleaner Writer

It's a problem that's almost as old as time. Some say that, just like taxes and death, cheating (or 'giving bun', as we say in Jamaica) is inevitable.

Remember the first Sex and the City movie and how upset Miranda was when her husband was 'kind' enough to admit he cheated on her - once? Many persons were surprised at her reaction, and termed it a bit irrational.

It seems that cheating in any relationship - married or otherwise - is to be expected. But what do you think? Can you, indeed, relate to the view that cheating is inevitable?

Francis from Portmore used to think cheating could be avoided - when she was 14.

"But based on how the world is these days, it's like cheating has to take place, even if it's just one time. And it's not just the men alone. Females cheat too ... . That's why I said even if it's just one time."

Ali, on the other hand, has a somewhat different view. According to her, "Cheating can be avoided - for both guys and girls - or at least that's what I'd like to think."

Here, she pauses for a while. When pressed to elaborate, she noted that she has yet to experience a relationship where she wasn't cheated on. But she's still holding out hope.

"Guys are way more likely to cheat ... although girls hide it better!"

Like Ali, Ray maintains that cheating can indeed be avoided. He believes that it's only the thought of cheating that's inevitable.

He says, "The action itself is a decision. Many people have thought of it, but not all carry out the action. It's really just a matter of self-control. It is most definitely not an easy decision, especially when you are a typical man."

Ray added: "Sure, there are exceptions to every rule, but the reaction that the hormone testosterone generates is not one that is only satisfied by one person. It's just human nature. What sets us apart is the decisions we make, and those decisions can be based on our upbringing."

Thoughtful words from Ray.

But unlike him, Shanique thinks that most persons cannot escape infidelity.

"At one point, the guy is gonna get bored. But otherwise, men cheat so damn much anyway. It's like they can't stop.

"Personally, it's like I've grown to expect it. And it's easier when you expect it too. That way you don't feel like there's something wrong with you when they do cheat. That's just how I see it."

She added: "Like, if you even get married, how can the guy not cheat for, say, 30-odd years? I just don't think it's possible. But that's just me still."

So there you have it. Like the rest of society, these Saturday Gleaner readers differ in their views as to whether cheating is an unavoidable part of life. But what say you?

Can you relate? Let us know by sending an email to canyourelate2@gmail.com.