If you're reading this, chances are you've been exposed to pornography in one way or another, or at least have heard about it. Pornography can seem like something fun, or even something that would "spice up" a relationship, but really it's more like a drug. You'll either be disgusted by it, or be drawn to it like a fly to the sticky fly traps, wanting more and more until it consumes you.

Don't think I know what I'm talking about?

Well, I do. Despite being a Christian growing up, I've had an addiction to pornography since I was around 10 years old. I knew it wasn't right, so I kept it secret from my family, but I couldn't stop. It had a grip on me. I felt like it was eating me alive. I felt pain every time I pulled up a dirty image, or a nasty video. I felt inferior, shut in, and disgusted with myself. I hated myself. Growing up, I have seen relationships broken, destroyed, and completely obliterated because of this addiction. I almost lost several friends to pornography, and not only because I watched it. I watched their lives nearly ruined because of the fact that they couldn't get a grip on this addiction. I've seen people who have had an easier job giving up their addiction to alcohol, smoking, sex, and even drugs than they have with pornography.

Still think porn isn't that bad?

Think again. According to Psychology Today, "Porn-free relationships are stronger, with a lower rate of infidelity." They did tests with men and women from ages 18 to 34, all of whom were in romantic relationships. 76.8 percent of men and 34.6 percent of women looked at sexually explicit material by themselves, while 44.8 percent viewed it with their partners. They found that those who did not watch any pornography did not have as much negative communication; they were more committed to their relationships, and they had higher levels of sexual satisfaction and relationship adjustment.

Porn often leads to cheating.

Research shows that lots of people who watch porn often think of partners they could have rather than what they do have. Pornography tends to make people feel dissatisfied with their current partner. The idea of having multiple partners seems more appealing than having a single partner, thus more proof that this hurts romantic relationships.

I will be free.

Today I am almost 19 years of age, and I am still working as hard as I can to be porn-free. Between prayer and trying many methods, such as having my fiancée set restrictions on my phone, prohibiting me from viewing adult content. I know that I can be free of this destructive force we call pornography. I know you can be free of it too.