By RTF Staff Writer Jennifer Grimes

My mom’s face twisted as she watched the television screen. Unable to control my curiosity, I moved into the living room to see what she was watching.

It was a Britney Spears concert. And I knew exactly why my mom was so disappointed. Britney was, as usual, dancing seductively on stage in a skimpy outfit, stopping to rub her body up against some male dancer.

Then the camera panned the crowd and stopped at a young girl, maybe twelve, dancing to the music and viewing Britney with eyes of wonder and amazement.

My stomach flopped.

Whether it’s Britney Spears, Miley Cyrus, Justin Bieber or the next big “role model,” I can’t help but wonder if these stars consider how they affect young people.

I can’t think that pole dancing in front of millions of little girls is influencing them in the right way, and encouraging barely teenage girls and boys to enjoy and instigate young romance seems a little inappropriate. Unfortunately, as much as I would like to, I have no opportunity to sit these “role models” down and tell them how dumb they are acting.

But I can tell you.

Though you may feel far from the spotlight, I can nearly guarantee—unless you live under a rock—that you are influencing someone. Maybe a younger brother or sister, or some kid you babysit, or a peer who is looking to you for answers. I can easily think of several people I influence, and you probably can too.

Let me tell it to you straight: Don’t abuse your power. It’s obvious to see that someone who admires you and looks up to you will listen to what you say and do what you say and even do what you don’t say, but what your actions say.

Too many celebrities have been caught up in the power of it all and have forgotten that little feet walk right behind them. Don’t be like that. Encourage those who look up to you to live lives that please God.

Even more than that, encourage your followers to look to the ultimate, perfect role model, Jesus Christ.

______________________

Jennifer Grimes, 17, lives in Texas. Besides writing, she enjoys hanging out with her family, reading good books, eating chocolate, and sending snail-mail letters. She has recently adopted a stray kitten and learned to crochet. Most importantly, she has devoted her life to Christ and strives every day to serve God boldly.