The Thirteenth Article of Faith states that we seek after “anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report, or praiseworthy.” Basically, we want to be culturally aware and find good things to watch, listen to, and attend.
As the For the Strength of Youth pamphlet states, Satan uses some entertainment to dull our spirits and make us think that “what is wrong and evil look[s] normal and exciting.” These days you have to wade through all the junk on TV and the contorted messages portrayed through the media to find uplifting entertainment. But knowing your own personal values and standards (like those laid out in the pamphlet) really guide you to making good choices and not getting lost in what the world and media would have us believe is okay.
Depictions of sex and violence aren’t conducive to the Spirit and don’t bring happiness, nor does offensive language or other lifestyle choices not in accordance with the teachings of the gospel. In recent years, General Authorities of the church have especially warned against pornography and it’s soul-withering effects. All of these are common in entertainment and the media, and we have to be extra careful to avoid them at all costs.
Making a personal choice not to participate in some of these forms of entertainment takes courage, especially when others challenge your beliefs and don’t understand why you make that choice. In high school, I walked out of a party where the majority of the girls wanted to watch a movie I wasn’t comfortable with. Several followed me out after I said something, but I had to be the one to stand up for what I believed in. And that certainly hasn’t been the only time I’ve excused myself from the situation or had to explain why I wouldn’t participate in the evening’s entertainment—even as an adult. It’s important as parents and adults to live the same standards we would expect our youth to live by.
The good news is that there is so much good out there. Anything that invites the Spirit is a wonderful choice, and it can come in many forms. You just have to be selective. The media brings us learning opportunities, General Conference, Mormon Messages through the Internet, and many other great options.
Related Blogs:
For the Strength of Youth Series
For the Strength of Youth Series: Agency and Accountability
For the Strength of Youth Series: Gratitude
For the Strength of Youth Series: Education
For the Strength of Youth Series: Family
For the Strength of Youth Series: Friends
For the Strength of Youth Series: Dress and Appearance