Isn't There Enough Negativity In The World? Poetry Helps Bring Joy Into Life

According to recent surveys more Americans than ever before are disillusioned with the state of the country. Public support for the war in Iraq has deteriorated, the economy is on thin ice, and people say they feel no safer from terrorist attacks than they did four years ago. And in the aftermath of hurricane Katrina, experts predict that millions of people may suffer from a host of mental difficulties connected to the catastrophe.

(PRWEB) October 2, 2005 -- According to recent surveys more Americans than ever before are disillusioned with the state of the country. Public support for the war in Iraq has deteriorated, the economy is on thin ice, and people say they feel no safer from terrorist attacks than they did four years ago. And in the aftermath of hurricane Katrina, experts predict that millions of people may suffer from a host of mental difficulties connected to the catastrophe.

Katrina victims of all ages were exhibiting symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder even before they suffered a whiplash effect as a result of hurricane Rita, and they are being strongly advised to avoid exposure to anything that might remind them of their original traumatic experiences.

That advice is difficult to follow, because we are constantly bombarded by images of violence, suffering, and overwhelming distress. Not only do we have direct reminders of the recent hurricanes, but also the entire media industry is saturated with examples of violence and negativity.

Canada, Great Britain, Australia, and some Latin American countries have systematically introduced media education programs into their public schools, in order to help children learn the skills necessary to help them cope with this potentially harmful onslaught of negative content.

What is often overlooked is that many of the same studies show the powerful potential for us to benefit from television programs, movies, books, and magazines that offer positive, inspirational, thought-provoking material. It's important to emphasize that, while there is evidence that some media can have a negative impact on the health and well-being of kids, media can also provide incredible opportunities for learning, growth and communication," says a spokesperson for the Canadian Pediatric Society.

Frances C. Parker, a successful author who spent 28 years as the director of a public school child nutrition program, agrees that the media can be used to feed our children a healthy diet of news and entertainment. The majority of the media dwell on upheavals, murders, death, war, swindles in business, and other news that sells. I prefer to speak on positive things, and there is a lot of that, even in Iraq," she explains, pointing out that it is generally a conscious editorial choice to emphasize negative stories over uplifting and joyful news.

Talking about, listening, and sharing the positive things in your life and your talents - volunteering for example -- is a good thing," she adds. Just look at the beauty around us. Why go around gloomy when there is so much fun and joy in the world.

Her recent publication, Joy, a beautifully illustrated collection of uplifting thoughts, poems, and observations, is one example of her personal contribution to positive media messaging. Joy has touched many peoples lives and has taken home awards. The book placed in the Top 10 in poetry/prose and in the Top 20 for best coffee table books in a recent Independent Publishers Awards contest.

Parker, meanwhile, continues to spread joy and happiness to her devoted readers. "Dont dwell on the sad," Parker says. Look for rainbows."

For a review copy of the book or to set up an interview with Fran Parker for a story, please contact Jay Wilke at 727-443-7115, ext. 223

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