Brittni’s Story

Course Cut-OutFreedom From Pornogrpahy
Written By Austin Cavaliere

If you need help seeing Jesus in the middle of your struggle, or just feel like you are stuck, ready to move into growth and healing, connect with a Christian coach.

Excerpt: Brittni’s Story

Course: Freedom From Pornography

Speakers: Brittni De La Mora

From Chaos to Redemption: My Journey Through Pain to Purpose

A Chaotic Childhood

Growing up, I was immersed in a chaotic and dysfunctional environment. Every day, from as far back as I can remember, my mother would tell me, “I hate you,” “You’re a loser,” and “You’re never going to amount to anything.” Her own brokenness led her to direct her anger and pain at me. From the age of four, I began to internalize these hurtful words, feeling deeply rejected and lost. I cried myself to sleep every night and wished for an escape from my misery.

Seeking Love in All the Wrong Places

In high school, my search for love led me to make some poor choices. I became infatuated with a boy and pursued him relentlessly, feeling desperate for affection. When we began dating, I lost my virginity to him, only to be betrayed when he cheated on me with three other women within a week. Devastated and feeling like my world was falling apart, I turned to partying as a way to cope. We crossed the border to Mexico, where I first encountered a strip club, leading to an experience that would shape my future in unexpected ways.

The First Encounter with the Adult Industry

That night in the strip club was a turning point. Drunk and heartbroken, I ended up on stage, following the lead of other dancers. For the first time, I experienced a form of affirmation and praise that I had longed for but never received at home. The attention and money were intoxicating, and I mistakenly began to equate nudity and validation with self-worth and acceptance.

The Decision to Enter the Industry

As I started college, juggling work and studies became overwhelming. Reflecting on my past, I realized I had made $65 from a single dance at 16, which made me wonder about the financial potential of the adult industry. I applied for a job at a strip club and began making significant amounts of money. It felt like a viable solution to my financial struggles and the praise I received reinforced my decision.

A Career in Pornography

My entry into the porn industry was marked by the promise of fame and fortune. I was approached by producers who offered me a chance to become a star in the industry. At 18, I naively accepted their offer, reasoning that since I was already taking off my clothes for money, taking it one step further was not a big deal. The allure of becoming a star and gaining acceptance was too tempting to resist.

The Dark Side of the Industry

Early on, I realized the porn industry was not as glamorous as it seemed. My first scene involved humiliating tasks and uncomfortable situations that starkly contrasted with the industry’s portrayal in media. My initial excitement quickly turned into regret as I faced the harsh realities of the industry, including a dangerous descent into drug addiction. Starting with cocaine, I soon escalated to mixing it with prescription pills and eventually heroin. My addiction spiraled out of control, pushing me towards suicidal thoughts.

Divine Intervention and a New Beginning

During a particularly dark period, a former partner encouraged me to reach out to my grandmother. I moved in with her in San Diego and was introduced to a church community. For the first time, I felt the transformative power of Jesus in my life. I accepted Him as my Lord and Savior and began to delve deeply into the Bible. Despite my struggles, God’s presence and guidance became increasingly apparent.

The Struggle and Spiritual Growth

My journey was far from easy. I found myself re-entering the porn industry under the influence of a manipulative partner. However, my growing relationship with God provided the strength to confront these challenges. An encounter with a Bible passage while on a flight was a pivotal moment. The message was clear: the life I was leading was not what God intended for me. This revelation led me to quit the industry and focus on rebuilding my life.

Embracing Faith and Healing

I started attending church regularly and experienced a profound sense of God’s presence. Despite being initially under the influence of substances, I felt a deep connection with God that I had never felt before. I committed to daily worship, prayer, and Bible reading, which facilitated my healing and transformation. God miraculously healed me from my drug addiction, allowing me to experience freedom and peace.

A New Life of Purpose

After a year of focusing on personal growth and spiritual development, I met a wonderful man of God who is now my husband. Together, we have two beautiful daughters and are dedicated to helping others find freedom from pornography and similar struggles. Our ministry work reflects our commitment to living out God’s calling and supporting others on their journey to healing and redemption.

Conclusion: A Journey of Transformation

Reflecting on my journey from chaos and confusion to purpose and fulfillment, I am deeply grateful for God’s transformative power. Surrendering my life to Him has brought blessings and joy beyond anything I could have imagined. My story is a testament to the redemptive power of faith and the incredible ways God can turn a life around.

 

If you like the content, you can continue in a few different ways…

  • 1) See the outline below and check out other sections from the FFP course.

  • 2) Take the full small group course to your church community! The first course your church runs is free! Reach out to us here to learn how.

  • 3) Connect with a Share The Struggle Coach for one-on-one support. Let’s face it, some of us have tried kicking this thing, and we’ve had no luck. It’s time to start looking toward forms of support that can help us see and feel the beautiful life God has in store for us.

 

Freedom From Pornography

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Freedom From Pornography 〰️

Part 1: Stories of Struggle

Session 1: What is the Struggle?

Session 2: The People

Part 2: The Roots of Dependency versus Design

Session 3: How Does This Dependency Begin?

Session 4: Biblical Roots

Part 3: Reconnecting and Reattaching

Session 5: Reconnecting With An Authentic God

Session 6: Working On Self

Session 7: Working With Others

Session 8: Healing With A Spouse

 

Share The Struggle Courses

Share the Struggle Courses are topical expert led video courses to help you understand life’s greatest struggles and provide you with tools for navigating them. Moreover, STS courses create a space for you to connect with others struggling with similar things, experience belonging, and encounter God’s nearness in a place of wilderness in your life (pain, confusion, healing journey). Want to start a group at your church? Reach out to us here to learn how.

 
 

What Share The Struggle Believes

Here at Share The Struggle we believe Jesus is present with us in the middle of our pain and mess, and it is in that place that we often experience and encounter Jesus most deeply.

We understand the unique challenges faced by Christians dealing with mental health. Our mission is to bridge the gap between faith and mental health support, providing a platform where individuals can find resources, coaching support and guidance, all tailored to their spiritual life and emotional needs.

We invite you to explore our resources, share your journey, and find the support you need to overcome the struggles you face.

Austin Cavaliere
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