Navigating Temptation: A Guide for Married Men Struggling with Attraction

Friends, I’m here to share a personal journey that I know many of you can relate to. I've been there, and it's never easy. I loved my wife madly, but there was a married woman who haunted me. Although I didn't pursue her, the lingering attraction made it hard. It is a reminder that being in love does not magically prevent you from being attracted to other women.

Welcome into the Real World

Being in love does not automatically exempt you from being attracted to other women. Love is a wonderful and valuable thing, but it requires commitment, which is your responsibility. You must learn to ignore this external attraction. There is no magic love fairy that will do it for you. The key is to stay focused on your marriage and your wife.

Strategies to Overcome Attraction

Here are a few practical tips to help you with your situation and stay faithful:

Out of Sight, Out of Mind: Avoid this woman as much as possible. The simplest trick is to limit exposure and interactions. Don’t Start: It’s easy to rationalize small acts of infidelity. Avoid starting any form of engagement, as even a little flirtation can escalate. Every action, from a smile to a text, carries consequences. Take responsibility for your actions. Acknowledge Uncontrollable Attraction: It’s important to recognize that attraction is a natural part of being human. You are not responsible for who you find attractive. What you are responsible for is your actions and choices. Wait It Out: If you can't eliminate the attraction, simply wait. The temptation will diminish if you don't feed it with attention.

Normalcy and Commitment

Because you are not dead. Actually, you may be, or you may just feel that way when these things happen to you. We are built to have attractions. Commitment, however, is a choice and a responsibility you make to someone. While some choose to overlook this and make other choices, it's not a path I'd recommend.

There's no need to feel ashamed or engaged in a deceitful behavior. Be honest with yourself and your wife. The choices you make will determine the outcome, not fleeting infatuations or momentary indulgences.

One of the most memorable romantic films I can think of is Sleepless in Seattle (1993). While many dream of such passionate and spontaneous love stories, the reality is often different. The real triumph lies in the choices you make and the commitment you maintain.

Remember, the journey to marital fidelity starts with the choices we make in the present, and the strength to stay true to those choices in the future. Stay faithful, and embrace the journey.