Friday, January 31, 2014

Sensational Web Posts

It really bugs me how most link titles these days are super dramatic and tell you how you'll react when you read them: "your mind will be blown," "you'll never believe what happens," "you'll never look at ___ the same way."

It's just so cheap and sensational. And I don't like being told how I'll react. I will react in my own way based on who I am and what I know. 

What these titles successfully do is make you curious and want to click on it. That's why it's cheap. And what do you find when you click on it? Nothing much. How much value does that article or slideshow add to your day...or your life? It's just so empty.

I'm sick of internet wisdom. Even if I agree with a blog post title, is that really where I should find my validation? Just because someone writes a witty, snarky post about the virtues of being a stay-at-home mom, doesn't mean I, as a stay-at-home mom need to share it on my wall ("See! My life choice is right!"), let alone read it. 

I am not trying to judge anyone here. I am mostly exploring these thoughts for myself. It can be really hard to minimize the amount of web content you read in a day. It's there at your fingertips anytime you get onto facebook (which, unfortunately for me tends to be several times a day).

In contrast, I know that the scriptures and the words of modern prophets are the "living waters." How much are we figuratively drinking from those? What are we filling our minds with? Because what we fill our minds with is basically who we become.

The truth speaks for itself -- it doesn't need sensational, appealing link titles. It is moderate (as in, not extreme) and subtle. It also takes time and prayerful effort to find. But "if ye seek, ye shall find."

Just some thoughts. These are the sort of thoughts that inspired me to make this the other day.




Speaking of the words of living prophets, there is a wonderful article in the February Ensign [pg 34; it's not online yet] by Elder Richard G. Scott of the quorum of the twelve apostles. He talks about how to live a life of peace, joy and purpose. He says,
"Decisions are made in accordance with unchanging truths aided by prayer and the guidance of the Holy Ghost....
"As an exceptional son or daughter of God, you are sorely needed. There is an urgent need for more men and women like you who will stand for principles against the growing pressures to compromise those very principles...
"Above all, we need mothers and fathers who will preserve the sanctity and safety of the home and the integrity of the family in which faith in God and obedience to His commandments are taught as the foundation of a productive life."
I am so grateful to have the fullness of the gospel -- the scriptures, modern prophets, prayer and personal revelation. Because of this I can have peace in my life, despite the turmoil and confusion in the word.

"Peace I leave with you. My peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."