Wednesday, September 20, 2000

Parents, do you know what's on TV?

I sat down this morning to catch up on some e-mail and, desiring the accompaniment of background noise, casually flipped through the channels, coming to rest upon one of the varied music television video channels. Long having suspicions regarding the content of these programs I decided to invest a few minutes to observe.

They say shock value in television gets ratings and lines pockets, yet the only shock I felt was a great jolt of sadness to my heart. Within three minutes of this particular program I watched both men and women simulating masturbation, two dogs fornicating, nudity and every obscene word spoken with a lame attempt to "bleep" them out. Parents, do you know? Really?

I feel compelled to voice my concerns not only because my husband and I are trying our best to provide influences that are spiritually, morally, mentally and physically positive for the three children that we have been blessed with, but also a concern for "all of our children."

We go to great lengths to remove impurities from our water and our air, we buy organic foods, we encourage physical activity, all in the name of promoting the best example of health for our kids, yet when it comes to the moral fiber and mental health of our children we fall incredibly short. Parents, do you know? Really?

I invite you all to take a moment and observe the graphic nature of these programs (it won't take long) so that you may recognize how your children are being morally and mentally fed each and every day. It is truly my prayer that we can make a difference and change this medium so that our kids can enjoy entertainment that won't strip them of their innocence and provide influences that encourage positive growth in every aspect of their life. After all, they are all our children.

Cheryl Adams

Peachtree City

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