Dear James,

Thanks for the question.

The category of impure thoughts most often is not a mortal sin, for we often don't have much control over what goes through our mind, and especially (if you get caught in the moment) for a young man whose body is influencing his mind as well; so don't despair. All you need to do is develop a simple mental prayer, like:

"Jesus, deliver my mind from evil," and move on.

If you get stuck in the trap of circulating thoughts, then pray,

"Jesus, I trust in you."

You must see this more like a mental discipline in the making. Patience is important, and most of all consistency. If you must do this many times a day that's fine, think of how many times you are then turning to Jesus so there is no sense in dwelling on these mental distractions, but use the occasion to spring into a better prayer habit.

Eventually, the energy of anxiety which emanates from this ferris wheel will diminish and you will not find it weighing you down.

Peace,

Bob Kirby