What is a Christian to do when they are married or took religious vows of celibacy, but then notice that they have feelings of attraction to someone they’re not married to?
Jackie responds with the sobering reminder that feelings are neutral. When they die off, that doesn’t mean the relationship is doomed; and when feelings toward someone start stirring up inside you, that doesn’t mean you have to start a romantic relationship with that person.
People are beautiful and good, and it’s natural to be attracted to their looks and personality—but just because you’re attracted to someone doesn’t mean you need to sexualize that attraction, or do anything with it at all.
It’s enough to just acknowledge that the person you’re attracted to is good and beautiful, and then turn to the other blessings God has given you in your life.
“Strong feelings are not decisive for the morality or the holiness of persons; they are simply the inexhaustible reservoir of images and affections in which the moral life is expressed. Passions are morally good when they contribute to a good action, evil in the opposite case.”
Catechism of the Catholic Church 1768
