Impossible Thing #16?

Thanks for the fan letter.  Answering your submission for Impossible Thing #16:

As to women's sex toys and masturbation per se. I think the point is more "What are you imagining?" rather than "What are you doing physically?"  If you are imagining an illegal act -- pedophilia, underage sex, invitation to sexual touching, raping, being raped, incest, physical restraint, physical harm -- or an illicit act -- adultery and fornication of any kind -- I assume (perhaps incorrectly) that there are consequences to that. Ultimately, because God is omniscient and Judgement Day does exist.  We'll find out on Judgement Day.

 If ALL you are doing is stimulating your genitals to orgasm -- then, I think it's like any other "pleasure centres of the brain" vice. Don't overdo it to the point of addiction. Certainly don't do it to the extent that it's more important to you than your relationship with God.

Just substitute masturbation for alcohol and review any good "Are you an alcoholic?" questionnaire if you get worried about yourself.  If you decide you have a problem, quit cold turkey.  "I wish I was a person who could just do this once in a while, but I can't so I have to just stop. Period." 

What I call The Cigarette Scale since quitting smoking cigarettes was the toughest one for me. 

As to "looks at a picture". My opinion (which is at extreme variance from the society in which I live): the only person you can legitimately see naked is your spouse whom you have married in the sight of God (i.e. a Church, Synagogue or Mosque wedding) (I note the quotes you put around 'partner').  "Don't go there" is my personal rule of thumb.

Thanks, again, for your letter, William!  Although I wouldn't put this on my list of Impossible Things, you're certainly welcome to put it on yours.