Is there anything quite like TV to dull the senses? To kill desire and motivation?
Some years ago, I read a very enlightening book by Jane M. Healy, Ph. D. entitled “Endangered Minds: Why Children Don’t Think – and What We Can Do About It”. The author cites multiple studies that led her to the conclusion that we are essentially ruining children’s ability to learn and pay attention. Much of the blame revolved around television viewing. One thing I recall was that a particular study revealed that people watching TV displayed less brain wave activity than people who were sleeping.
Huh. That brings new meaning to the phrase “brain dead”.
Seriously, though, when I sit in front of the TV for any length of time, I lose all motivation to… well, to do anything.
My husband has shown his love for me in remarkable ways since my foot surgery. He moves me from the bed to the couch and back again every morning and evening, propping me with pillows and tucking me in with a blanket. He has assisted me in changing clothes, showering, and getting to the bathroom in the middle of the night. He’s done the cooking, the dishes and the laundry. The list seems endless.
One result of this has been a lot of time in front of the TV as I’m propped up on the couch. I’ve been using my earbuds and some ambience YouTube videos to cancel out some of the noise so that I could read, study my Bible and write.
The surgery was 11 days ago, so I’ve made some progress in my recovery. I still can’t put any weight on the foot, leaving me helpless in many ways. I can, however, move into my office and work at my desk with my foot propped up on my knee scooter. This is where I was yesterday when I sensed a bit of a breakthrough in my writing. A memory from my childhood surfaced that may have had a significant impact on how I developed as I matured. I spent some time in tearful prayer and felt eager to begin writing about it. I’ve found that the very process of writing about memories from long ago helps me remember even more.
Because my foot was hurting, I decided to move from my office back onto the couch. In the process I misplaced my earbuds. As I sat on the couch eating dinner in front of the TV, I eventually lost all the passion and zeal I’d had to write about the breakthrough.
How disheartening.
I have since found those ear buds and will be keeping a much closer eye on them. And I’m praying I can get back that passion from yesterday.
Oh yeah, passive consumption does leave me feeling like I’ve wasted my time too, then I end up feeling sorry for myself. But it’s a good way to fill up your well too, so it’s not all bad. Besides you have a legit reason because you’re hurt. And your husband is awesome. Thanks for sharing!
Yes, sometimes it is a good way to fill my well. And sometimes, after a particularly stressful day at work, vegging out to something entertaining is just what I need. Thanks for the comment!