The compass points to controversy

There has been much ado concerning the movie "The Golden Compass." Much like "the Harry Potter uprising," Christians have organized their opposition and have been quite vocal (at least in email and blogs) about it.

As a Christian, I too am concerned about what can influence our kids - either on the big screen or in the pages of a book. I also enjoyed reading fantasy novels in my youth. So, I don't think I could be considered one of "those people" who are against any and every fantasy book/movie.

Having only read some of the opposition emails, and not the books themselves, I can only draw limited conclusions. Here are some of the undisputed facts:

• The author, Phillip Pullman, describes himself as an Agnostic and an Atheist.
• Reviewers describe his books as "anti religion."

There are many who would defend the books and movie as pure fiction, and should not be considered a threat to those who are grounded in their faith.

Here is my take (for what it is worth):

• Why make money for someone who is anti-religion, regardless of how good the book(s) or movie is?
• While most adults can discern fact from fiction, is it worth the risk to a child who may not make the distinction? (Who wants to be a Transformer when they grow up?)
• Back to the first point - Why pay money to someone who hates you? I still can't get past that one. End of argument for me.

I applaud those who have been vocal in their concern and opposition to this movie. Christians need not be the "silent majority" in the United States.

If only we had the Internet and email when prayer was being taken out of our schools.

May The Blog Be With You.