Media sometimes presents itself as a guardian of
healing. However, healing is always
occurring in society. Ubiquitous media
though never stops in playing its part with far-reaching implications. As objects of attention media has profound
influences on our perceptions, and the healing of mind, body, and spirit. This is because the mass media is the central
nervous system of the world. It lives up
to the description of Henri Nouwen (1932–1996), a
Dutch-born Catholic priest, and professor who asked, “Did I offer peace
today? Did I bring a smile to someone’s
face? Did I say words of healing? Did I forgive? Did I love?
These are some real questions. I
must trust that the little bit of love that I sow now will bear many fruits,
here in this world and the life to come.”
Nouwen’s assessment of our social responsibility can be
likened to the role of the media in society.
If it succeeds, or fails is for us to decide. We know the media has been able to bring
about healing of some social issues e.g., wars, natural disasters, and racial
conflicts.
Media’s Message
The media covers stories of diverse religious faith
traditions, cultures, and ethnic groups, via newspapers, magazines, books,
radio, cable, TV, and the Internet.
Although limited in some cultures, it’s sobering
that we’re able to find some commonalities in these
media. It’s clear that
with many faith traditions adherents worship the same God called by different
names. People are able to attribute some
degree of healing, peace, prosperity, and personal well-being because of the
work of some media professionals.
A message that comes through loud and clear is best captured
by Joseph Addision (1672–1719), an English essayist, and
playwright who said, “If you want to succeed in life, make perseverance your
bosom friend, experience your wise counselor, caution your elder brother, and
hope your guardian genius.” This
statement means putting one’s trust in the belief that
media should attempt to be fair. Undoubtedly,
these beliefs permeate some media outlets, and faith traditions, although their
editorial approaches may be different.
Nevertheless, it’s media that should take the
lead of being a healer, and purveyor of this reality.
Secular & Non-secular Media
It’s unwise to think that readers
and viewers will respond similarly to media’s role in
healing. Some argue the media does
nothing more than promote sensational stories.
It’s commonly believed by media critics, “If it bleeds
it leads.” But people may tend to forget
the discussions and analyses in contemporary media. Experts weigh in on the important stories
which their audiences are free to accept, or refute.
Taking shape though is the edification of the public, thus
bringing wholeness to the viewers’ perceptions of stories that may be difficult
to comprehend. With this process media
can do a lot to allay fears. Whether
news come from the secular or non-secular media there’s often some good
results. People become aware of
suffering, and other vital changes in society.
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