Is it not true that we would have less judgment for others if we simply realized that to each will come the consequences of their choices?
Some are ready to make great sacrifice and receive tremendous blessings.
Others are content to not go to such extremes and receive moderate blessings.
While others choose to make no effort at all and experience undesirable negative consequences.
Agency is a gift to us from God. He rewards us with blessings as we make choices that draw us closer to Him. He rewards us each according to our efforts.
People often ask me how we address media in our home. Here is a brief response:
No Netflix. No Disney +. We do not own a TV. We stopped watching Disney movies 20 years ago. My teens grew up reading books, playing outdoors, and spending hours together, laughing and making memories. We do have family-friendly movie night once a week, and watch uplifting and edifying videos, documentaries, and programs on our computer on occasion.
No regrets here.
Some say it is impossible to raise children without a constant stream of media.
I’m here to tell you that it is possible.
The blessings that have come to our family from limiting media over the years have been tremendous.
We each have agency, but there are consequences attached to our choices. The better our choices, the better the consequences.
RESOURCE: OUR FAVORITE FAMILY-FRIENDLY MOVIES
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“We must model that which is virtuous and lovely by our personal media choices. We must take care that the media we invite into our homes does not dull the sensitivity to the Spirit, harm relationships with our family and friends, or reveal personal priorities that are inconsistent with gospel principles.”
– Mary N. Cook
These sites have helped me create a home environment I love:
For The Strength of Youth booklet offers wise counsel on this subject:
For The Strength of Youth
MEDIA
You live in a day of marvelous technologies that give you easy access to a wide variety of media, including the Internet, mobile devices, video games, television, movies, music, books, and magazines. The information and entertainment provided through these media can increase your ability to learn, communicate, and become a force for good in the world. However, some information and entertainment can lead you away from righteous living. Choose wisely when using media because whatever you read, listen to, or look at has an effect on you. Select only media that uplifts you.
Satan uses media to deceive you by making what is wrong and evil look normal, humorous, or exciting. He tries to mislead you into thinking that breaking God’s commandments is acceptable and has no negative consequences for you or others. Do not attend, view, or participate in anything that is vulgar, immoral, violent, or pornographic in any way. Do not participate in anything that presents immorality or violence as acceptable. Have the courage to walk out of a movie, change your music, or turn off a computer, television, or mobile device if what you see or hear drives away the Spirit.
Pornography in all forms is especially dangerous and addictive. What may begin as an unexpected exposure or a curious exploration can become a destructive habit. Use of pornography is a serious sin and can lead to other sexual transgression. Avoid pornography at all costs. It is a poison that weakens your self-control, destroys your feelings of self-worth, and changes the way you see others. It causes you to lose the guidance of the Spirit and can damage your ability to have a normal relationship with others, especially your future spouse. It limits your ability to feel true love. If you encounter pornography, turn away from it immediately.
If you are involved in pornography, cease now. Seek the help you need. Your parents and bishop can help you take the steps necessary to repent and rid yourself of this destructive habit.
Take care that your use of media does not dull your sensitivity to the Spirit or interfere with your personal relationships with others. Spending long periods of time using the Internet or a mobile device, playing video games, or watching television or other media can keep you from valuable interactions with other people. Be careful that your use of social media does not replace spending time with your family and friends.
Guard your safety and the safety of others by taking great care about what personal information and images you share through technology. Do not communicate anything over the Internet or through texting that would be inappropriate to share in person. Obey the laws that govern sharing music, movies, and other copyrighted items.
If you are not sure whether something is appropriate to watch or listen to, talk to your parents and other adult leaders. The Holy Ghost will give you strength to make correct choices.
—–Create healthy technology habits in your life and in the lives of your children using these recommended family-friendly resources.
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8 Quotes to Inspire Healthy Technology Habits
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Art Credit:
Summer and Playing Children
By Nikolai Astrup
Salt Leaven and Light 
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