Many people like to hang posters of people that they admire. Being a fan can be fun, whether of a musician, sports star or a historical figure that you admire. People who stand out in whatever they do can inspire you to greater heights and even help you tap in to your hidden talents. The potential harm comes when you put blind faith in them. People are fragile, at best, and sometimes morally corrupt. You should admire people for their achievements, but don’t overlook what they represent morally.

Also consider how much your “hero” affects your personal life. Do you think about him or her too much? Does your hero dominate your conversation with others? People can be exciting, motivating, fascinating and stimulating. But if they rule your thoughts, you are out of balance.

When your heroes begin to change your mind and your morals from God’s ways, or when you surrender your judgment to theirs, they become more than heroes; they become idols. Having an idol is always wrong. In Exodus 20:3 God says, “Thou shalt have no other gods before me.”

Also examine whether the poster arouses desires toward the opposite sex (as many posters are quite suggestive). If a poster makes you feel like breaking any of God’s laws (listed in Exodus 20), don’t hang it.

What to Hang

• Consider decorating your room with good, wholesome pictures of past events that you and friends were involved in. It is always nice to have a reminder of that weekend camping trip you took with your family and friends.
• A state or world map would not only be an educational decoration, it would enhance your room’s decor by leaps and bounds.
• You might also hang a poster that reflects an interest of yours. For instance, if you’re an animal lover, a poster of horses, dolphins or puppies would be good choices. If you like literature, you might consider hanging a poster of Shakespearean quotations.
• A lot of posters have funny or inspiring quotations that can be a positive, motivating force each day.
• One last point: Be sure it is okay with your parents to decorate your wall. They provide you with “your” room and may not wish for you to put holes in your walls with tacks. If so, ask if putting your poster in a frame would be acceptable.

Posters and other wall memorabilia are exciting aspects of a room. If chosen carefully, they can inspire and motivate you. If you will just take time to think about what is on your wall and what it says about you, you will be well on your way to inspiring yourself and others with your tasteful choice of wall posters!