I watched Miss Representation, documentary film yesterday with the local AAUW and Girl Scouts. It has me thinking about what influences we face in this day and age. There is vast exposure to enormous amount of information. As with any information it comes through the filters of the presenter. Then you add our personal filters to the formula. How does that effect what we learn, believe and value? How does it affect who we are and what we do?
The film is about the miss representation of women in the media and the impact it has on women and men. It also shows how powerful a tool the media can play in mass belief systems. It demonstrates the need to “check the facts”, which means gather information from more than one source so you can have different points of view.
The current times expose us to so much more information and opinions in a very short amount of time. How can we take it all in and process it? We need to know what our values are and are we using them to process the input? Are we helping others (our children, family, colleagues) to take a deep breath and process the information to form their own point of view prior to reacting? Are we being respectful of all human beings? Are we tolerant of differences? Are we looking for potential and understanding “flaws”? Are we looking for solutions, collaboration versus blame and excuses? Equality is access, not all having or doing the same thing. Fairness means respect for individuals and options for all.
Are we behaving in mass without thinking for ourselves? Is there fear involved – for ourselves, the unknown, perceived consequences, what ifs? Are we exploring how this will impact us as well?
What role models do we have throughout the world – every shape, size, make-up possible? How are we choosing our role models? How are we interacting as mentors?
Be conscious of the information you are taking in. Know your values. Determine your actions and reactions with your values and respect for others in mind. Make a difference in your life and those around you. Let your point of view show tolerance and encouragement for each individual’s growth, development and accomplishment. Gender, race, religious, ability differences are to be acknowledged and respected. Self-respect is evident in respecting others.
Let your questions and concerns, be appropriate for the context of the interaction. Ask where your reaction is coming from prior to responding. Emotions, beliefs, values are all tied into our responses. Be aware. Demonstrate proper regard for each and every one.
What are your thoughts or experiences with being misrepresented or misrepresentation?
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