Let’s talk about the music industry. Let’s talk about hip hop. I’d like to share something our teen mothers’ program discussed in class. We were discussing why the black family is 75% fatherless. It was very interesting, when asked what they thought was the biggest problem, they shared, “Our music.” Profound. They shared how it demoralizes women, emphasizes sex, wealth and fame. Let’s look at the country music industry as a comparison. Let’s think about the people who listen to country music. Do you think music can affect people’s culture? Do you believe that if music talks about God, working hard, being a stand-up citizen or if it sings about drugs, sex, poverty and gangs, day in and day out, would it start to affect you? Could it alter how you feel about women, being a citizen, a father and a man or woman? If children are listening to it from the time they are born, can it affect them? According to our teen mothers, they feel it does.
Talk to your kids about societal trends, they should have a safe space in your home to speak their mind. If we are too rigid, they will be less apt to bring it to us. Be willing “to go there”, stay plugged in with your kids, because your children are plugged in, even if it is wireless.
With persuasive words she led him astray;
She seduced him with her smooth talk.
All at once he followed her
Like an ox going to the slaughter.
Proverbs 7:21-22
Above all else, guard your heart,
For it is the wellspring of life.
Proverbs 4:23
The words of the wicked lie in wait for blood,
But the speech of the upright rescues them.
Proverbs 12:6
A woman without discretion
Is like a ring in a pig’s snout.
Proverbs 11:22
