We are all in this together

I’ve been looking at porn for a very long time. It became a place of comfort—where I didn’t have to work for acceptance or talk to anyone to feel desired. I could just masturbate to different images and videos that gave me the kind of gratification and happiness I longed for. But that happiness was temporary, the gratification instant, and I fully accepted that. Isolation became my comfort, and pixels became my reality. I’ve only come this far in my journey, but each day I can feel and recognize the difference. There’s a real sense of freedom in no longer being bound by the chains of porn. It feels amazing to begin getting my life back. I know I have a lot to learn when it comes to relationships, and I’m learning to be gentle with myself—because I’m discovering something completely new at a later point in my life. Still, I strive to continue this journey. Each day can be a struggle, but knowing that someone might read this and take comfort or wisdom from my words helps me feel even more committed to keep going. I also learn from others, and I hope and pray for those who struggle every day. Just know this: if you’re trying, you’re doing something right. Don’t be too hard on yourself. Reset the clock, start again, and keep going. This journey is something new for those of us choosing to live differently and make positive changes. So, brothers—be strong. And may the Creator be by your side, offering comfort, strength, and guidance.