Dear Everyone,
I appreciate all your points and strong feelings. I started writing replies a number of times but each time I deleted it. Truth is that I am really torn over the issue. I went home before Shabbos happy that I could "safely" buy a laptop, and when I came in after Shabbos I got knocked with some very strong feelings. My inclination would be Shev VeAl Taase, but I have to reconsider.
So I decided to at least write this.
Thank you

Besides the danger of p***, computers are addictive IN THEIR OWN RITE.  Especially a computer at home.  Once you have one, SUDDENLY so many things you can do on it seem so important.  It really takes a toll on everything else.

Ok this is really tearing me apart.
I know that this is going to sound like the Y"H talking, but I am going to run it past you guys.
I know that before I started to work, I managed fine, but as time has gone on I have used the computer at work for personal use more and more. I know that my boss does not mind (he got insulted when I asked him if I could print off something personal) but there is a limit.
GYE takes up a lot of my time and even more of my concentration and emotions during work time - and I NEED it.
I might be wrong, but I have made it very clear to my wife the dangers involved. I plan Bli Neder to give her the password. All in all I would like to give it a try.
I am not saying all this to justify myself, or to quiet my conscience (I hope - Negious !!!!!) I just think that By doing this with the right guards in place, one can survive, and maybe gain as well.

ovadia wrote on 24 Jan 2010 13:27:


Thos are two very unsettling possibilities. "One can survive" and "maybe gain as well". I am not going to tell you what to do, but from experience, if there's even a slight possibility that an addict has to reverting back to old ways, he WILL.

It's a tough call. This is a situation where I think it would be great to talk to a rebbe...

There is no clear "right" answer - it very much depends on your particular situation, and while we can point out the dangers and advantages, none of us know you as well as you know yourself, or a close rebbe knows you.

Just be careful, think long and hard, and (if you get it) get it knowing that you may have to get rid of it at some point in the future, if you see things aren't working out.

Wishing you the best and hatzlacha on your decision. But dont ever forget that the lowly YH is always there!

Please keep us posted (really, no pun intended! :D), one way or another.