Ripping the Veil off a Dark Industry

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: Ripping the Veil off a Dark Industry

Course: Freedom From Pornography

Speakers: Brittni De La Mora

Seeing the Human Side of Pornography

Maybe you're like I was, thinking that watching porn isn't a big deal because those performing it seem to enjoy it. You might believe they’re happy with what they do, not realizing the deep pain and brokenness behind the scenes.

The Hidden Pain

A few years ago, I was helping a girlfriend transition out of the porn industry. I had known her since 2012 when I was leaving porn. She was struggling with drug addiction and felt stuck, believing the lies that she had made her bed and now had to lie in it. She was convinced that quitting would leave her unemployed and an addict. I kept in touch with her until I heard she had checked into a sober living home and quit the industry. I sent her clothes and books, and we stayed in contact. She once asked me, "Is it normal to want to commit suicide?" and I was shocked. Then, I lost contact with her, and later found out she had died. This isn't an isolated incident. In 2018 alone, there were about six suicides in the industry, including one of my close friends.

The Reality Behind the Fantasy

When we watch pornography, we might think we want to quit because it affects our soul, but we often don’t see the humanity of those performing. Many performers are trapped in cycles of addiction and brokenness. In my seven years in the industry, I often used drugs to cope with the weight of my sin, without which I might have ended my life. I've seen performers on set, drinking heavily, doing drugs, and even crying during shoots, feeling degraded and trapped, but continuing because stopping meant no paycheck.

Stories of Brokenness

I often asked performers why they got into the industry. Many had stories of molestation, rape, and growing up in religious households where they were told they would go to hell for not being perfect. This kind of brokenness and dysfunction led them to porn, not empowerment.

My last three and a half years in porn, I had a pimp, and nobody knew. Everyone thought he was my fiancé. I had a quota to meet daily, sometimes resorting to selling myself on Backpage for $80 to $100 a guy. It was terrifying, fearing for my life. I lost another close friend to addiction or suicide, and found out too late.

The Lie of Empowerment

When people say porn is empowering, it’s frustrating. If porn were empowering, why would so many performers commit suicide or contract HIV? Why are the movie titles degrading? Porn isn't empowering; it’s degrading. Many performers have bought the lie that it gives them freedom, but you’re a slave to whatever controls you, whether it's porn or money.

Sharing My Story

I’ve shared my story countless times over the last 11 years since becoming a Christian. Many people thank me, saying it helps them resist temptation. So, if you're struggling, remember, you’re not alone. Knowing the truth sets you free.

Moving Forward

As you continue with this course, don’t let the enemy trick you into believing porn is empowering. The performers are hurting too. They’re not enjoying what they do. Many struggle with erectile dysfunction and use medication to perform. What you see is a fantasy, not reality.

Conclusion

I hope this helps you see the human side of those in the industry. Just like you, they’re hurting and struggling. Porn is an escape that never leads to true freedom.

 

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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