Most of us watch it, and many complain about it, but is there anything wrong with it? No, not in and of itself. It's information, albeit sometimes subjective, but nevertheless information. The biggest problem I have is the type of information that is being focused on.
The other day Christopher Stevens, in a tragic attack on the US Embassy in Egypt, died, after protestors stormed the embassy following news that an anti-Mohammad movie was released or made.
What I would like to hear about besides this side of the story is what else happened. I would like to hear about the Muslims that came to the aid of those in the Embassy. I would like to hear of what others in the area are doing to discourage such senseless crimes. I would like to hear about the moderates, the majority, the regular citizens that want a world where they can raise their children safely, and make a decent living.
Like with our own views and beliefs, there are always many sides to every story and truth that are also valid and need our attention. It is my premise that these areas need our attention at least as much as the main story here.
As a Counselor I help clients each day to question their thoughts and beliefs, to look behind their thoughts to the meaning of what they are saying. I ask them to to stop and question the truth of their statements, gently pushing them to see a greater truth, a bigger picture.
We can all do the same, and I would like to see this reflected more in our News programs as well. It's too easy to focus on what is wrong, and who is wrong, or who did wrong, without stepping back and seeing the whole picture.
My prayers to all those hurt or killed in these senseless attacks.
