How much am I really missing, because my mom doesn't want us all watching the commericals says it teaches us that we don't have all we need, and e NEED more stuff "she isn't worried about me, mostly my younger sisters) and she doesn't want to pay for cable, so what am I missing, and how can I get the same info. And how important is TV

Your not missing anything. In fact you are one of the luck ones. There are so many more important things in this world to concern yourself with than TV and what is happening in the world of "make beleive". You can't miss what you never had. I don't thin it teaches you that you are missing what you need. Need and want are two dfferent things. If you were livign a life without necessity you would know it. Sounds to me that tyou are all right... Great job Mom!

Sex, violence, hatred, and gilligan did get off the island ( depends on how long you have not watched TV)

My husband and I haven't had cable or satellite since we got married almost 5 years ago. We watch dvds, but while we watch we'll draw or look at magazines and I'll usually paint, crochet, embroider... if its not a movie I'm interested in, ill even read a book. Sure, I do miss TV because I really enjoy the discovery, history, and learning channels, but I don't need it. Use the time to develop hobbies or talents. Hubby and I will sometimes spread a tarp on our living room floor and flintknap. He turns out beautiful arrowheads and I... well, I'm still learning.:) really, you aren't missing too much. Just the same overdone TV series plots.