Fr. Mike Schmitz joins Matt to discuss New Year's resolutions, the Bible, and how to repent. They explore topics like the dangers of not taking ourselves seriously, challenges in marriage, enthusiasm for the Ascension app, and the struggle with pornography.
To overcome pornography addiction, make it less available and remove anonymity through accountability.
Viewing freedom from pornography as a daily choice, rather than a destination, leads to gradual recovery.
Breaking free from shame by seeking support can aid in healing and growth.
Deep dives
The Power of Availability, Affordability, and Anonymity in Pornography
One of the reasons why pornography has such a strong grip on people is because it is available, affordable, and anonymous. It is important to find ways to make it less available, through internet blockers, for example, and to remove the anonymity through accountability. Services like Covenant Eyes can help with this by providing accountability partners who receive reports of internet activity. While this may not heal the underlying issues, it can provide some breathing room for individuals to work on their hearts and seek true freedom.
Freedom from Pornography is a Daily Choice
Rather than viewing freedom from pornography as a destination, it is more helpful to see it as a daily choice. Recovery is often a journey of making the right decisions one day at a time. It is important to accept that the struggle may not completely go away and that it requires ongoing effort and commitment. Instead of striving for an end point where one is completely free, the focus should be on making daily choices that align with one's values and lead towards healing.
Removing Shame and Seeking Support
Shame can often keep individuals trapped in the cycle of pornography addiction. It is important to step out of shame and towards the light, seeking support from trusted individuals such as priests, friends, or support groups. By bringing the struggle into the open, individuals can find understanding, accountability, and guidance. Breaking free from shame allows for greater healing and growth towards a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Overcoming Social Anxiety
One possible cause of social anxiety is excessive preoccupation with oneself and what others think. To alleviate this, instead of focusing on oneself, try to genuinely listen and engage with the other person in conversations. By shifting the focus away from oneself and aiming to put the other person at ease, social anxiety can be reduced.
Dealing with Disillusionment in the Church
For Catholics who feel disillusioned due to the current pontificate, bishops, priests, or personal mistakes, it is important to remember the truth: one does not leave Peter because of Judas. While it may feel insulting or overly simplistic, this truth remains. Additionally, the advice is to run to confession when in a state of serious sin, even if it means grabbing a priest and confessing to them immediately. Confession is a key source of healing and grace in times of struggle and doubts.
