Sexual lust is an inordinate thought or feeling that drives us to use ourselves, others, or things for self-centered destructive purposes. The spiritual sickness of lust wants sexual stimulation at that moment instead of what G-d is offering us. Later, we come to see that lust wants anything other than what is offered to us each moment. We thought lust was our friend. We used it for many reasons, entertainment, as a refuge from pain, or to escape dealing with problems. Somewhere along the way though, the lust becomes a bigger problem than the problems we are trying to avoid. The medicine becomes the poison. Our "solution" becomes the problem. Lust is a wall that separates us and keeps us from enjoying full relationships with G-d and the people around us. Lust drives us deeper and deeper inside ourselves and leads to isolation, loneliness, and despair.
As we break the cycle of of lust by taking the steps of recovery, our experience of life begins to change dramatically. As we begin to recover, we gain a new sense of integrity that makes us happy to be alive. No more hiding! No more lies! No more double life! As the burden of guilt and shame is lifted, we have more energy available for friends and family, work and play. A troubled and dark countenance gives way to a life that is happy, joyous and free.
Excerpts taken from a SA pamphlet...