Have you ever noticed that in today’s world some folks are so busy parroting what others say you begin to wonder if they even have any core beliefs themselves?
As a parent, this concerns me on many levels and for the obvious reasons. As an adult, it saddens me because I realize that we’re our children’s first influencers, and so many little ones are exposed to far too much during their impressionable years.
I grimace when I hear youngsters mimicking ugliness heard in the home because I know the likelihood of the repetitive factor. Children raised in harsh environments will, by all probability, repeat the cycle with their own children some day.
When negativity and ridicule marry, the outcome is rarely a good one.
On the other hand, when Christ is placed in charge of our lives and invited into our hearts and homes, the foundation is laid brick by brick for a life full of hope and possibility.
I think about the word “foundation” a lot, and its many implications. I’m curious about people and why we take as Gospel the words of some T.V. personalities, sports figures, or even politicians when it’s pretty obvious that the words they spin are usually accompanied by ulterior motives or hidden agendas. (Notice I said some, not all.)
Why is it that we’ll so readily accept the words and perceived wisdom of others without exploring first what we really believe?
Even as Christians, it’s easy to get sucked in by promises, trends, gimmicks, and pretty carrots. Because we live in a world that espouses the latest and greatest fads, naturally, we are drawn to the lovely, well-dressed tables that have the prettiest china and the most eye-appealing menus. It temporarily satisfies our appetites when we dine on the “feel good” morsels that become accepted norms. We may feel a twinge of guilt when we realize that we’ve been duped by what should be so obvious: a hamburger is still a hamburger even when it’s touted as prime rib.
I don’t try to play the moral police, but it is up to me to be judge and jury where my own children are concerned. God has charged me, as a parent, with the responsibility of raising our kids in a morally healthy environment, a receptive climate, and one that honors Him.
I’m not perfect. I make mistakes. My heart is pricked when I think I’ve hurt someone. Despite this, I also know I have the power within me to correct these things. Because my foundation is Jesus Christ and my past, present, and future rests in Him, I’m guaranteed that His words and promises will stand. The dust beneath my feet is just that–dust. But if I sweep beyond that, the ground is solid, secure, and ready for a picnic. I don’t need the fancy frills of white linen to dress up my dining experience; I’m more of a red and white, checkered plaid kind of gal.
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Yes, I’m going there. What do you think is the biggest influence in today’s society?
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Note: I was recently interviewed by Christian novelist Keli Gwyn for Romance Writers on the Journey. The interview will initially post today around 4:00 p.m. Pacific time. It was a fun experience and I’d love for you to stop by and visit. Keli is a talented author and a very gracious hostess.
Comments 8
IMHO Jesus Christ is still the biggest influence in today’s society. There are some politicians and celebrities who like to think they are influential, and that may be, but it is only for a short time, until the next one comes along. But Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever. Like “looking through a glass darkly,” to quote Paul, it only appears that those with the microphone are the most influential voices, when in truth, the still, small voice inside is the one that will bring change that lasts.
Author
Yes, Patti, so true and so well stated!
Okay, you answered, the “who.” And for Christians, He is our mainstay. But what about “baby Christians”,non-believers, or those who are still searching for the “golden calf?” What–or even who–might be their influencers? Just wondering what you think…
Wow, great points here, Cynthia! My son is now at the stage where he repeats everything we say and uses the same tone to go with it. It’s quite eye-opening and a good reminder to keep my heart in the right place.
Author
Yes, and I’m reminded of the phrase I heard a lot as a child, Sarah…”Little pitchers have big ears…” Didn’t understand it then, but sure do now.
And we’re presently at an interesting phase in life with two children 10 years apart in age. One word. Wow!
As far as the secular world goes, I think media is a huge influencer.
Movies, magazines, TV shows and advertisements continually push
the moral limits, creating new norms and boundaries. There are some
TV shows on so-called “family friendly” stations that I would never
my children to watch. Our current young generation is overstimulated
by various forms of media and overexposed to adult themes and
concepts. It truly is the parent’s responsibility to guard and guide
our children’s minds and hearts, while praying for God to give
us wisdom in our parenting. I know only too well the repetitive
factor you mentioned. 🙂
Author
Whew! It’s a relief to hear you voice it, too, Tanya. I’m left scratching my head especially over the “family” programing that is promoted.
I’ve clicked over from your interview with Keli to explore your blog, Cynthia, and I find a subject that always hits a nerve with me. Our youngsters are forced to grow up so much faster in this generation than in the previous one, and I’m convinced media plays a huge part in it as influencers — television, video games, and the internet. There are positive aspects to all of these, but filtering out the negatives is almost impossible.
A 16-year-old girl in one of our churches went missing last week. It was totally out of character for her — she’s a leader-in-training at church camp, is an A student at a Christian school, is happy at home… a cheerful well adjust girl. Everyone feared the worst, while praying for her safety. Police, search and rescue, community and friends searched with increasing concern. Then she arrived home, saying she had decided she needed to heed the advice in a movie… take time away to explore what she might otherwise never know about, and discover her capabilities. She left her cell phone, ID and purse behind and walked away in the middle of the night to spend a week in the city’s downtown core and a night on a local mountain, all by herself. Despite their objections to the contrary, our children don’t have the maturity to discern the difference between reality and fiction. Providing appropriate guidance is a huge responsibility for parents, teachers and church leaders.
::climbing down off my soapbox now::
Author
Hello, Carol! Very nice to meet you! And I’m thankful that the yound lady was found okay. I agree, our young people are inundated with so much negativity, promiscuity, and “grown up” info that it makes appropriate discernment all the more difficult for them. Role models are not what they used to be. On a brighter note, however, I’m encouraged by Christian authors addressing delicate issues to meet the needs of those still searching…