THE EDITOR, Sir:

AS WE observe (not celebrate) World Aids Day, let us take the opportunity to have a close look at our society.

One of the concerns which have been highlighted during this year is the involvement of children in sexual activity. But, why should we be surprised? Television, which, to my mind, is the most influential decision-making factor for young people, is full of what I call 'sex arousal activities'.

Just a few weeks ago, as a family, we decided to eat at a fast-food restaurant in Manor Park on a Saturday evening at about 7:00. To our shock and dismay, on the screen were skimpily clad girls wining suggestively. I complained to the manager, who quite casually said, "This is what our customers want." Well, she obligingly changed the channel to one of our national stations. Lo and behold, the very same type of thing was on screen!

Why is it that these types of music videos are allowed at this time of the evening? So much so that it is not unusual to see parental warnings as early as 8:00 p.m. on Fridays, and I suppose on Saturdays too. For goodness sake, this is the time of evening when we should be able to allow our children to watch local television without having to baby-sit! And what about corporate entities who sell furniture, cars, cellphones and other items with the use of these skimpily clad, wining individuals? Is there no creativity on the part of advertisers? Why, then, are we surprised at the sexual exploits of our children? That is what we are feeding them!

As the Christmas season approaches, let us bear in mind the powerful manger scene of Joseph and Mary standing watch over the young child. Innkeepers - meaning corporate entities - stop polluting the minds of our children! And to the Church generally, wake up and provide wholesome alternatives for the enjoyment of our young people.

As the world pauses to reflect on the ravages of the disease, let's resolve to stop the pollution of our young minds. Such pollution results in the undermining of those values, which alone are able to keep them from premature sexual activity.

I am, etc.,

S. RICHARDS

2 3/4 Ruthven Road

Kingston 10