Contagion

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OK.  So please don't get offended believing I'm writing about you.  But, after reading this, you feel like I've used you as an example, then I probably have.  However, keep in mind that what I'm about to describe fits many of us, including me.

That said.......  Recently I received a home video through the Thought Dock portal.  I wish I could post the video here, but that would certainly make the sender feel singled out.  But even if I did single them out, it would be good for them to hear my point of view.

The video logged an incident where a parent baked a cake for the children.  The cake was quite large and was decorated with whipped chocolate frosting and brightly colored designs  The cake looked like it was "To die for."

Apparently, the mother (who was not shown on the video) seated her four children around a small table with the cake in the center.  There were no plates, utensils, or napkins in the area.  The kids ranged from age 2-9 years, and were instructed to "Have at it!"

What a delightful surprise it was.  As I watched, the three oldest kids immediately dove into the treat using only the fingers and hands, and sometimes even forced their mouths directly into the cake.  What a mess!  It was rather apparent the kids were having a blast, although it was not anything I would ever let my children do, nor do I personally think it was wise.

As the video progressed, I noticed the youngest child with a strange look on her face at the start.  As she watched her siblings plow into it, it was clear that she knew at the start that it was wrong to eat like a heathen.  But as time passed, she joined in with the others.  First by only dipping a finger in, but eventually joined in full throttle.  What a mess!

To me it was more than just a video of kids having fun.  It convincingly illustrates "Learned Behavior."  That youngest child knew from the start that what her siblings were doing was not acceptable behavior and refused to participate.  But after watching her siblings do it, she succumbed to the peer pressure, and soon joined in.

Interestingly enough, several weeks before, that youngest child who had minimal exposure to church, came home from Sunday School, chanting, "I want to be like Jesus."

So, it works either way.  You soon become like those that you associate with, whether good, bad, or ugly.  Sin can only lead to further Sin, just as easily as righteousness leads to sanctuation.

Jus' Sayin'.  So Mama tell your children...
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