Internet Safety Assignment: Media Article

1. What article did you choose to read for your fourth article?

I read Elder H. Burke Peterson's article "Leave It Alone," found in the January 1995 New Era (originally given in a General Conference address in October 1993).

2. What were the most important things you learned from the readings?

Elder Peterson taught that it is up to us to select appropriate media to view and listen to. Although we have been counseled for many years to not view R-rated movies, Elder Peterson here counsels us to not view any movie or television show that promotes behaviors or ideas contrary to Gospel teachings. This also applies to the music we listen to. We need to abstain from viewing or listening to unwholesome material, regardless of its ratings, and even if in doing so we stand alone. As we wisely choose uplifting media to view and listen to, we will be entitled to personal inspiration, which will make us happier and more successful people.

3. How will what you have read influence your actions as a parent and/or teacher of children
and youth?

I found Elder Peterson's statement that, "...on our television and theater screens is portrayed more and more often a lifestyle that might even rival the excesses of those who lived in Sodom and Gomorrah" to be incredibly powerful --especially considering the fact that he spoke thisto audiences more than 15 years ago! Elder Peterson's message inspires me even more to protect my future students and children from the evils of the media. I recognize and enjoy the many wholesome uses of the media, and I look forward to being in a position of authority as a teacher and parent where I can influence children to make wise choices about media use. I will teach them to choose to watch wholesome movies and listen to uplifting music, and to abstain from watching/listening to material that is inappropriate in any way -- no matter the rating. Additionally, I will model correct behavior for the children as I only endorse and view appropriate media.

4. How can you use what you have learned from the reading to have a positive influence on
family and friends?

Although I am proud of my friends' and family's media choices, I will be an influence for good as I only view and listen to appropriate media. I will turn off or walk away from inappropriate media.