She's Uncomfortable Talking to Her Bishop

Dear Bro Jo,

I am in great need of your help.

When people think porn they think boys, but reality is that not just boys struggle with it, girls can too, and that’s my case.

Although I went to the Bishop and spoke to him about it there was more I wanted to say, but I couldn't because my Bishop is a very serious man and I often feel very uncomfortable talking to him.

I was unable to tell my bishop the whole truth including the fact that I have masturbated, is there a way that I can recover from this although it’s been a long time that I've done it?

I also don’t want to talk to my Bishop again because I just can’t speak to him; he is someone that makes uncomfortable.

Also because my Aunt is the only other member of the Church in my family it isn't enforced on me and I often become inactive and then fall into a pattern of bad behavior, which is what has lead me to commit these sins multiple times and “repent” for them, but it wasn't until recently that I truly repented.

I didn't love the gospel before but then I turned 17 and everything changed and I want to belong but because of my sins I often want to quit church and forget. I don’t know how to move on from my past?

I don’t want to be a quitter and hide from something I love so much.

Please help me.

- Name Withheld




Dear Sister,

It isn't his seriousness that is making you uncomfortable when talking to your Bishop, nor is your Aunt being the only member the reason why you've occasionally fallen into bad behavior.

The "uncomfortable" feelings you have are the influence of Satan trying to keep you from feeling the love of the Savior.

The "pattern of bad behavior" is because you made some choices you shouldn't have.

To move on from your past you need to leave that bad behavior behind.

No one lives life mistake free, but as our love for the Gospel grows and our choices reflect that love then we'll more regularly know the joy that Heavenly Father has for us, more often know the blessings that are in store.

Be Strong!

Never give up. Never surrender!

- Bro Jo