Entertainment---NECESSITY?

I don't think so!!! I am sure I am in the minority.

I have believed for about the last 30 years of my life that the world (at least the U S A ) has too much of it. I saw it in my children, and even more in my grandchildren.

It is constant. Watching videos, playing video games, listening to CDs, never silence. Can you remember the last time there was simple conversation (without background noise)?

We are managing to take away a reason for our children to be creative. We place it all in front of them on a silver platter. Then when the music stops or the video ends, what do we hear? "I'm bored!" What happens? They are fed more entertainment. When are we going to see how we are harming our young ones? How about finding something to do? OR maybe chores and helping with real life things that have to be done in life. Yes, a three year old can be taught how to set the table. Oh, but how often does a family sit down to the table for a meal? (That's another subject for another day)

It is amazing how small children began to feel a sense of belonging and family when they are required to help. Small children can sweep, dust, pickup toys. We all need to feel a sense of order and belonging. How many studies do we see/hear about young people who finally find a sense of belonging in a street gang. Now I know; that no matter what parents do, some kids will defy everything parents try to teach and turn to distructive behavior.

Back to entertainment.

Now our oldest grandchild is 8 1/2 years old. We have never taken any of our 7 grandchildren to the movies. UNTIL THIS AFTERNOON. Now, we (G'pa and me) have experienced sticker shock! G'ma, G'pa and 3 kiddos tickets $36, popcorn & soda $21, pizza @ Ci Ci's $22. As we got the kids back to our place and the kids were bouncing around the house, hubby and I talked- "Do you realize that people do this sort of thing all of the time?" "That is unreal!" "Some people think it is a necessity!" I believe that some people think it is as important as paying the rent or utilities.

Now some years ago, I went through some severe financial situations. I remember Paying the rent/mortgage, utilities, insurance, keep enough cash for gasoline to get to work. Many times there was not money even for food. I learned to like rice with salt and pepper. Its even better with peas in it. Popcorn works too. ENTERTAINMENT? Did not even concider it. I could read, play solitare. I observe so many who believe they NEED entertainment or are entitled to it. WHY?
Until Then,

Katie