Generally, when to comes to time spent in front of the television… my advice for families most of the time is to spend as little time there as possible. It seems especially as time goes on that there is less and less of anything of quality and high morals to be found on that square box. And honestly there is a LOT of lies and brain-washing to be found there today… but that is a subject for another day.
I am old enough to remember when there were a few shows on the boob-tube (where did it get that nick name anyway?!!) that were uplifting, encouraging and that promoted hard work, family and even FAITH! Hard to even imagine these days with the absolute smut and degrading molarity found there today.
But, there is one older series I recommend whole-heartedly – Little House on the Prairie. The TV series ran from 1974 – 1983, but you can still find it running daily on several family channels on cable and satellite today. Actually…. It is running in the background as I write this here in our house and is what prompted me to write this review. I know every show by heart from watching over the years and even now that I am old enough to be a grandmother, I still enjoy them, as does our entire family. Maybe it is because I have always thought I was born about 100 years too late. Before they were available to buy on VHS or now DVD, I had carefully recorded the shows off the television so we could watch them and especially so our son would not miss out on this great series. As I watch it even all these years later, I am even more amazed at what a great show this is and what care, forethought and attention to details that went into the production of this series. From the accuracy of the costumes, the language and customs of the times, the historical accuracy, the characters and especially the values, morals, family and faith that come through so vibrantly in each and every episode. All of these are sorely missing from our current line-up of newer shows today.
This ‘Little’ show has it all! Action, adventure, history, love and romance, mystery, family values, high morals, faith and even comedy! The series is based in the series of books written by Laura Ingalls Wilder herself about her own life and adventures in a young America – there is even an episode that deals with her trying to get her books published. Even though set in the 1800’s, the subject matter of each show is as timely today as they were then – the value of hard work, close family ties, how to keep your faith through difficult times, helping others in need, the importance of friendship, how to deal with difficult people, racism, people with disabilities, life and death and the importance of having God first in your life…and many, many more.
The characters are great and they each have their own great qualities as well as their faults – as well all do. The loveable, rough-around-the-edges Mr. Edwards occasionally has a drinking problem. Nelly is mean and nasty most of the time but finds a husband who brings out the best in her later in life. Mrs. Oleson is snooty and conceited but has a softer side she lets out on some occasions. Even Charles Ingalls himself has times when he fails or takes the wrong path, but together and with God’s guidance, they always manage to make it through the difficult times. Good life lessons for us all. Ohhh… and did I forget to mention… there are tons of animals on the show ands even some episodes that center around Laura’s horse Bunny!
So, on the cold winter nights that are left until spring arrives, or on a rainy summer afternoon stuck indoors, if you are looking for a family activity that old and young alike will enjoy and will leave your heart full, your spirits uplifted and maybe even teach the kids a few things about history and good life lessons – search the channels to see if you can find this great series. Or even better yet – purchase the entire series and watch it from the beginning in order so you can follow the characters as they progress through life. Of course, you could also purchase the series of books as well and snuggle up to read them or use as bedtime stories as well. I have the whole collection of those as well. There are even versions available for younger readers and as well as cookbooks so you can share in the food fun to go along with the times and the show as you are watching -kids LOVE this!
I have often thought the TV series and/or the books would make an awesome foundation for a homeschool curriculum or a Bible study… who knows, maybe one day I will get around to writing one.
You can find Little House on the Prairie on line, and on DVD many places including Amazon at the links here:
Little House on the Prairie (TV series) – Wikipedia
If you are going to spend time in front of the television as a family, make sure it is something that builds character and honest family values – not that tears them away. This series a great example of just that! Besides being highly entertaining, it will open chances for further great conversations, lessons and study if you choose to take advantage of those opportunities.
Wishing you family many smiles, much laughter and even a few tears as you share this endearing series together!
Shawn
