Everything in moderation. Television isn’t bad — only if you abuse it.

Television is a recreational activity, like many others. It may be passive, but under the right conditions, it can also be social, or mentally stimulating, or educational.

Television is most often about story-telling, a time-honoured tradition that goes back thousands of years through all human cultures.

Watching sports or concerts is a very, very common activity in television. How is this different from going to a stadium event? And it’s free or inexpensive. And you don’t have to be exposed to the elements. Much can be said for convenience.

Watching television isn’t all that different from going to the movies. Do you shun Cineplex?

By not watching television, you’re missing out on some of the greatest shows ever produced, like:

• Dexter
• Shameless
• The Walking Dead
• Game of Thrones
• The Expanse
• Star Trek: Discovery

And let’s not overlook the wonderful documentaries on PBS.

I’d rather watch these shows than shell out big $$$ to go to live theatre. Again, convenience.

Some people may be more inclined to pursue projects that matter more to them. That’s fine, but you can’t generalize over the whole population. Different strokes for different folks.

It’s also not an either-or proposition. With good time management, you can watch your favourite shows and pursue your personal projects (as I do).

It is the height of hubris to suggest that there is only one good or proper way to live one’s life. You should do whatever works for you, but don’t look down on other people’s choices.

I watch television. It has enhanced the enjoyment of my life. And I am fine with it.