I was 12 years old the first time I was asked about masturbation during a Bishops interview. I think I was surprised to be asked that kind of question by a priesthood leader. Being caught off guard, I told the Bishop that I didn’t but that was a lie. From that time forward in each subsequent interview I would go back and forth between telling a lie and telling the truth. From then and up until a few months ago, about 30 years, I have felt guilt and shame on a regular basis (shame when I have confessed because who wants to admit to having this kind of problem) after masturbating and have hated myself for making the same mistake over and over and over….how could I be so stupid and selfish is what I tell myself to try to get myself to change. I think that priesthood leaders do not need to know the details of sexual sins. They should encourage members to take their issues up with the Lord.
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