A few days ago, I saw an image I did not want to see. I was
researching a brain medical condition, clicked on a link, and suddenly a pornographic
image filled my phone screen. Without hesitation, I closed the window and
didn’t focus my mind on what I saw. Because of past experience and decisions
I’d already made, it was easy to react and reject it quickly.
But then the thoughts crossed my mind, do my children know
how to handle a situation like that? Do they know and understand how dangerous
pornography is? I had taught them in the past, but I felt the Spirit prompt me
to share my experience with my kids, and take the time to talk to and teach
them again about pornography.
Some may argue that parents shouldn’t discuss such things
with their young children. Or some may feel too embarrassed or uncomfortable to
talk openly about it. Others might want to teach their children, but they have
no idea where to start or what to say. Regardless
of these opinions, I am a firm believer that parents are obligated to teach
their children about pornography BEFORE their innocent minds ever encounter it. Even with
strict rules, internet filters, and monitored homes—unexpected pornography
exposure happens. I want my kids to be equipped and ready so that they know
how to respond to it. I want them
to learn about pornography from ME first—before they learn from their friends, online,
social media, etc. The world will try to teach them, but our children need us,
their parents, to provide them with TRUTH before the lies. They need to know
how to fight before the deadly battle begins. They need to know how to swim before
they are thrown into a raging, merciless ocean.
Sister Linda S. Reeves powerfully taught,