Today as I was reflecting on what I wanted to be the subject of my fast I was thinking about my week, what went good, what went bad, what I wish I could have changed, what I wish I would have done. As I thought about my week I realized just how much filth I have had to fight off this week. With many things going on constantly one has been popping up more and more. First a little backround.
I am sure that most everyone has heard of 50 Shades of Gray by now. It seems that everyone on the planet thinks that it is wonderful, or they think it is the most atrocious thing to ever happen. Though I definitely agree that it is an awful precept and it makes me sick that such a thing can be getting screen time in normal movie theatres, I do not agree that it is the first, or worst in main stream media. You know what I am talking about. How many movies have inappropriate scenes, how many magazines portray both men and women as objects of gratification, how many popular songs dont have explicit or provocative lyrics. Media is degrading at an alarming rate, and because we see so much of it, we almost don't recognize it is happening anymore.
It was while I was thinking about all of those awful things that surround us that I knew what I was going to fast about, and I knew what I had to do. I am going on a media fast. I am not going to listen to the radio, I am not going to watch tv or movies. I am going to cut these negative and degrading influences from my life entirely. This may seem rather drastic but what am I really losing here? All of these things are simply time fillers. I am taking something that provides no benefit to my life, that can weigh me down and Im eliminating it.
Personally I am tired of fighting negative influences in my life, I dont want to have to stay strong when something comes up, I dont want to search through the radio stations to try and find a song that isnt "that" bad. Those things are not worth it to me. Those things that really matter aren't going anywhere. I still have the love of my life, I have the gospel, I have work and friends and school. If you ask me, that is more than enough!
I was rather intrigued by your post. First off because of the #discoverthebook insert. I like that! It's cool to see how much the Book of Mormon is flooding the earth. I actually took that challenge and posted a picture of me with the Book of Mormon as well. It's interesting how you say that technology and media are so full of filth because it's the truth. I say it's interesting because for my #discoverthebook picture I actually took a picture of me with my Iphone and the cover page of the Book of Mormon on the main screen. I thought it appropriate because honestly like you say we are surrounded by filth, but I wanted to show that despite the "gross" side of media, there are really good things that come from it. I can access ANY scripture at any time wherever I'm at with my Iphone. It's great! I like that aspect of technology.
ReplyDeleteI give you props for your willingness to do a "media fast." Good luck, and I really think it could help you concentrate on the things that really matter in life. Such a great idea!
yeah when I said media fast I meant specifically mainstream media. I still have facebook and I took my picture with my phone too! Also I listen to church music and conference and things like that while I study. Its made a world of difference so far and I highly recommend it to anyone willing to take the leap!
DeleteWow Shane. That is a drastic change to make. A media fast does seem that it would be extremely beneficial. I admire your posting the Book of Mormon picture and your fast. If you need anything to fill any extra time you should read a book! I know I always feel more fulfilled when I am reading good literature instead of watching shows.
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