Friday, November 21, 2008

A Media Fast


UPDATE (25 Nov 08):

I have No Doubt, Ingrid Michaelson, A Fine Frenzy, Brooke Fraser, and Styx in my CD player...didn't want y'all to think I'm close to being translated or something! Just wanted to share some thoughts on some simple changes I've been trying out....

ORIGINAL (21 Nov 08):
So I didn't voluntarily give up TV, movies, and radio, but I am grateful for the change that it's been for me. Back in May when Michael was preparing to put in his mission papers, the Stake President asked that he start living like a missionary - no TV or radio, only G-rated movies, limited internet, and other things....

Since I spent a majority of my time with him over the past 6 months, I haven't been listening to the radio, I only watch 1 or 2 tv shows each night (JEOPARDY and Dancing with the Stars tend to be the favs) and the only movies I saw in the theater were Wall-E and the Emma Smith movie. On Tuesday, I went with Dad and the monkeys to see Dark Knight. DISTURBING! Oh my goodness! Other people told me they didn't like it either for the violence and it's "dark" feeling, but I have to admit that it really pushed me to reconsider my "media fast." I've been turning off the TV more and trying to listen to uplifting music (but I do need some Styx to rock out every now and then!). I didn't think that it made that much of a difference, but now that I realize that I haven't had that static in my life, I recognize an increased measure of the Spirit and I'm able to recognize promptings far more often than before. Neat!

I was just reading some articles getting ready for my talk in Stake Conference and I found this neat quote from
Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin in a conference talk...

"Parents must know what their children are watching on television and must protect them from its evil influence. They should set a proper example by watching only those programs that are uplifting and worthwhile and opposing those that are corrupt and degrading. Many people decry television shows that portray sin and evil as being normal and acceptable, and even preferable to righteous living. However, viewers set the standards for television broadcasting. The networks and stations broadcast the types of programs that most of the people want to see. Mr. Frank Stanton, CBS president emeritus, told a Brigham Young University audience that network television standards will continue to decline because they are based onsociety's standards. He said, 'Standards come from the audience; the audience determines the programming and program content.' Further, he said, 'I believe there will be more infractions with respect to [immorality] and violence and it will get a lot worse before it gets better because of the changing standards of our society.' "




When was this said?


1989


when "The Cosby Show" and "Golden Girls" were the top shows

not "Desperate Housewives" and "Grey's Anatomy"


I'm just saying...

3 comments:

kati b said...

Wow, it's amazing to think that President Blake gave that counsel over 6 months ago! And go you for taking up the challenge, too. You could have easily made it harder for Michael to follow that counsel, but instead you chose to embrace it! Not easy in this world with all the literal noise. I like how you used the word "static" in describing it. I'm sure that Michael is not having such a hard time adjusting to the MTC due to wise counsel from his Stake Pres, and for a wise girlfriend who supported that counsel as well. And look what you've gained from it, too! :) Wow, this blogging stuff can be clarifying, can't it?!

Tim and Holly Fowers said...

Kaycee, I hope you remember me from Logan, but I saw your comment on Lauren's blog and couldn't help checking in on you. Do you still live in the same stake as my brother in law? You are one of the sweetest people I have ever met and I really do miss you! Have fun on your trip and keep in touch!

Tanya said...

Hey Kaycee! This is unrelated but ask your brothers which one is snakeface! They should know what the heck I am talking about. Then let me know their reaction and who is the culprit!:) Thanks!