In our last War Cry we noted the Netflix series 13 Reasons Why. In this edition, we return for a longer look. The Office of Film and Literature Classification has given 13 Reasons Why the new classification of ‘RP18’—under-18s are only supposed to watch with parent or guardian supervision. The series ‘deals with suicide, bullying and depression. Episodes may contain violence, sexual material, drug use, and frequent offensive language. Some episodes contain graphic depictions of suicide and rape’. Reason enough not to watch, for many.
‘Parents should use their judgement about whether their teen is ready to watch this show and then watch it with them,’ said Deputy Chief Censor Jared Mullen. ‘The series raises a lot of issues, but often fails to fully address them, and it’s really important that trusted adults can step in at that point.’ I’m not going to tell you to watch 13 Reasons Why, but I encourage parents and youth workers to at least talk about this series—as we’ve been doing in our home.
Take the time to listen to what your teenager thinks before you jump in though. Proverbs 18:13 says, ‘It’s stupid and embarrassing to give an answer before you listen.’ ‘Stupid and embarrassing’ are labels parents wear from time to time, which is fine when it comes to our opinions on our teenagers’ clothing and music choices. But when it comes to the topic of teen suicide, we don’t want anything to get in the way of really hearing what’s going on for our kids.
This week, we farewell talented designer Tanesha Dahya, who has been with us while Lauren Millington has been on parental leave. While we’re delighted to have Lauren return, we’ve been blessed by Tanesha’s outstanding contribution.
Christina Tyson
Editor
Galatians 6:2 New International Version
Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfil the law of Christ.
Ngā Waiata 28:7
Pīkaua e tētahi ngā whakataimaha o tētahi, hei whakarite i tā te Karaiti ture.