questioning the norm

Beyonce says go to a club, have a “drank” and get a new man when your boyfriend’s “actin’ up.” Apple Bottoms jeans can look so fly that you forget the name refers to a sexual body part. And sex may look so fun and exciting on Gossip Girl that you forget about STDs, a broken heart and pregnancy in real life.

So what am I saying? Throw out your CDs and clothes, and never watch television? No. But I’m encouraging you to be careful. These things are so “subtle and crafty,” just like the devil. The music and television shows seem harmless, but the effects of it coming in contact with your Spirit day after day can lead to your downfall. And that’s why Examples Youth Ministries (XYM) is here. We encourage you all to rise above your peers and be filled with knowledge to make wise decisions. God says “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” We won’t allow your destruction! Through our events and programs, we are committed to being your mentor, motivator and friend.

And this includes reminding you of all things that can steer you away from spiritual growth and a promising future. Single Ladies by Beyonce is just one example. But how many times have we become so energized with the Lollipop beat that we sing along with Lil Wayne, who is making a request for sexual favors? He’s nominated for eight Grammys this year. I encourage you all to start questioning the norm, because it’s not always right.

Apple Bottoms clothing provides style for curvaceous women. But when boys start to look at your “apple bottom” because it’s plastered on your back pocket, what do you do with that attention? Think about those T-shirts that reveal clever sayings like, “Juicy” or “Your boyfriend likes me.” I want you all to consider how these words can affect the way you see yourself and how the opposite sex sees you. Words have power. The Bible reminds us that life and death is in held in the tongue.

Sometimes sin isn’t as blatant as a lie or murder. It can be so “normal” in our daily routines that we miss it. It could be lacking faith that you will pass a test, or fear of telling a boy “no” because you want him to like you. I know Hip Hop kind of took a beating in this letter, but it is having an affect on our young people, whether it’s positive or negative. I hope to have many more discussions on this topic and more with you all. Just simply chilling out when you’ve been hurt by a boy may not make a hit record, but I guarantee it’ll do better for your Spirit than having a “drank.” In the meantime, stay in the Word, get informed and be careful ladies.

Stay encouraged,

Teresa Sewell