Recreation is an essential and vital part of the gospel of salvation--a gospel which makes provision for every need of man. After a person has performed his assigned or appointed labors, both in making a living and in service on the Lord's errant, it is edifying, relaxing, and proper to enjoy the diversion of wholesome recreation. Excessive participation in even wholesome recreation is unwise. Elder Bruce R. McConkie, Mormon Doctrine

Remember, our Savior, Jesus Christ, always builds us up and never tears us down. We should apply the power of that example in the ways we use our time, including our recreation and diversions. Consider the themes of the books, magazines, movies, television, and music we make popular by our patronage. Do the purposes and actions portrayed in our chosen entertainment build up or tear down the children of God? During my lifetime I have seen a strong trend to displace what builds up and dignifies the children of God with portrayals and performances that are depressing, demeaning, and destructive. Elder Dallin H. Oaks, Oct Conf 1995

Recently I asked some special young people what I should know about your generation. One young man spoke for the group and said, "We live on the edge." Since that time I have thought a lot about what it means to live on the edge. Of course it can mean many things. I think my fine young friend was referring to hazardous motorcycling, cliff climbing, and other forms of recreation which may involve taking unnecessary risks to produce a challenge or a thrill. So many times young people are enticed to go to the very edge or even beyond it. With only a precarious toehold, it is easy to be seriously injured or even die. Life is too precious to throw away in the name of excitement, or, as Jacob said in the Book of Mormon, "looking beyond the mark." President James E. Faust, Oct Conf 1995

Perhaps we should be less concerned with fun and more with faith. President Gordon B. Hinckley, Apr Conf 1990

Sometimes bad examples, or "the uncertain sound of the trumpet," which children receive in the home comes in the form of criticism of Church authorities, or in speaking kind words and thoughts outside the home but within it speaking words which are harsh and brusque. The sound is unclear if children observe the payment of tithing when and if it is convenient, or if they hear justifications for not paying it in moments when faith weakens. It is a distorted sound when they see that observance of the Sabbath depends on which sport event is scheduled for the day, or if the weather is ideal for an outing. Elder Angel Abrea, Apr Conf 1984