In today’s world, the media seems to focus heavily on negative news stories such as violence, natural disasters, and political conflicts. This can lead to a constant stream of negative information, which can be overwhelming and potentially harmful to our mental health. It’s important to be aware of the media’s impact on our well-being and to limit our exposure to negative news.
It is important to exercise caution when it comes to the media as it can significantly impact individuals in multiple ways, often leading to their easy influence. The influence of media is evident in how people perceive certain events, issues, or even individuals. It can shape their political views, social attitudes, and cultural beliefs. Media has the potential to create narratives that can distort reality and manipulate people’s understanding of the world around them. It is essential to approach media consumption wisely and be aware of its potential influence on our thoughts and actions.
People are naturally attracted to kindness and love. When they encounter these qualities, even in written work, they are drawn in and want to explore, experience, and offer support. Kindness in the media has been shown to increase acceptance and connection to people of different races, potentially helping to bridge racial divides.
“When persons manifest the least kindness and love to me, O what pow’r it has over my mind. … The nearer we get to our heavenly Father, the more are we dispos’d to look with compassion on perishing souls—[we feel that we want] to take them upon our shoulders and cast their sins behind our back… if you would have God have mercy on you, have mercy on one another.”
Joseph Smith
Joseph Smith is saying the least bit of kindness and love that is shown makes a powerful impact. Forgiveness is a core principle of the gospel of Jesus Christ. When we forgive and show love and kindness, God will have mercy on us because we will love one another. News writing should also reflect this core principle of the gospel. It should be truthful and unbiased rather than being created to attack anyone. There is good happening in the world that is newsworthy but rarely written about in the news.
Kindness is a quality that is admired and appreciated by everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs. Witnessing acts of kindness can remind us of our connection with others and the values we share. It may also help us maintain a positive outlook on the world and the people in it, which is crucial for our mental and emotional well-being.
One way to alleviate the pain we feel when we witness others suffering is to focus on the positive actions that can be taken to help them. This concept, often called “catastrophe compassion,” highlights the importance of maintaining a positive outlook and taking constructive steps to support those in need. By doing so, we can turn a negative situation into a positive one and empower ourselves and others to make a meaningful difference.
News stories highlighting kindness can replace despair with hope to inspire people to get involved in positive change. One way to reduce the prevalence of “mean world syndrome” is to incorporate more positive and uplifting news stories that promote kindness and compassion. This can help people develop a more balanced and realistic perspective of the world, reducing their fear, anxiety, and pessimism levels.
Research has shown that positive news writing can significantly impact our mental well-being. It acts as a buffer against the harmful effects of bad news, helping to reduce mood disturbances and promote a more positive outlook. Additionally, positive news has the ability to influence our opinions and actions toward others, encouraging us to embody God’s commandment to “love one another.” Exposure to uplifting stories inspires us to be kinder, more compassionate, and more empathetic towards those around us, leading to a more harmonious and connected world.
Melanie DuBose 