May-03
Q: I
have struggled with an addiction to pornography since I was a teenager, I am
38 years old. Although I don't know from personal experience, I can just
imagine how horrible other addictions (drugs, gambling, alcohol, etc) must
be! A few years ago, with the explosion of the Internet, my addiction took
a new level. I don't think it was that I was more addicted, I guess it was
so easily available. I have gone through the entire cycle of denial, guilt,
fear. I have done what most people probably do, go to confession and really
try to change my ways, then I fall into the same trap. After doing it once,
it almost seems like "it doesn't matter" anymore, and I might as well
continue, since I have already "failed". I KNOW that this is the wrong
attitude to take, I am simply stating how I feel sometimes. Over the last
couple of years, I have started to see through the "clouds" and started to
realize that I don't have that power. I have started to accept that only
through God's grace and with his help and mercy will I ever be able to beat
this thing. Every time I end up in confession, I keep praying and hoping
that it will be the last time, I get a "boost" of confidence, but then I
find myself failing and feel completely worthless and discouraged. I know
these feelings are Satan's way of keeping me in sin and away from a state of
grace, I just don't know how to break that cycle! Any prayers and words of
advice would be greatly appreciated!
- F
A: Dear F,
I encourage everyone in your situation to seek membership in a local chapter of Sexaholics Anonymous (SA). SA provides an excellent spiritual program and support system for helping each and all to overcome this insidious addiction.
In addition to SA, I strongly encourage weekly confession along with spiritual guidance from your priest or pastor.
It took time for this addiction to develop, it will likewise take time to overcome.
Remember, GRACE IS CUMULATIVE!!! GOD'S GRACE WILL CONQUER!!!
Evil cannot overcome the Grace of God.
The single most important thing you can never do is quit and give up. If you do that, Satan has won another soul.
You are in our daily prayers.
God Bless!
Paul @ PornNoMore
Copyright © 2003 PornNoMore.com rights reserved