21 August 2013

Breksa Shimai: Class of 2012 Valedictorian - despite warnings that not reading books she found offensive would hurt her grades




In the LDS church, the youth have a booklet called, "For the Strength of Youth." In it are guidelines for media and books.  Breksa Shimai lives these principles and has been blessed for it.  

From the booklet:


If there is anything virtuous, lovely,

or of good report or praiseworthy,
we seek after these things. 

Articles of Faith 1:13

"You live in a day of marvelous technologies that give you easy access to a wide variety of media, including the Internet, mobile devices, video games, television, movies, music, books, and magazines. The information and entertain- ment provided through these media can increase your ability to learn, communicate, and become a force for good in the world. However, some information and entertainment can lead you away from righteous living. Choose wisely when using media, because whatever you read, listen to, or look at has an effect on you. Select only media that uplifts you.

"Satan uses media to deceive you by making what is wrong and evil look normal, humorous, or exciting. He tries to mis- lead you into thinking that breaking God’s commandments is acceptable and has no negative consequences for you or others. Do not attend, view, or participate in anything that is vulgar, immoral, violent, or pornographic in any way. Do not participate in anything that presents immorality or violence as acceptable. Have the courage to walk out of a movie, change your music, or turn off a computer, television, or mobile device if what you see or hear drives away the Spirit." 


While in high school she was assigned books that went against her beliefs. Her high school principal and teachers made arrangements for her to read other material.  However, in her sophomore one teacher said Breksa Shimai would have a difficult time later in school and her grades would suffer if she didn't read the assigned books...not so. Breksa Shimai was class Valedictorian.

Sister Breksa's motto: Integrity Before Grades