Is it spirituality or conscience itself that prevents misconduct?

There is something inside that is very strong and prevents one from doing things that are wrong. For example, most cannot kill another person, unless that power is nullified. Similarly, most will not deliberately steal from another, nor will they target individuals for any reason. Equally strong, however, are the emotional forces that well up and can explode in an avalanche of unlikely behaviors and actions. These can include murder, suicide, robbery, bullying, etc., and the list is long.

Spirituality is born within while behavior is learned. Throughout life one must decide which one to follow. If it’s the former, only good behavior will be attractive. If, on the other hand, one tends to enjoy the chaotic mess that the misbehavior of some creates, then that is the way to go.

Our spirit guide will react to violence or misbehavior and that is like a swelling of resistance that some call an ‘adrenaline rush’. One can feel that when watching what is called an action movie. Emotions are triggered by others acting out what we cannot do ourselves.

Children who are exposed to such behavior may develop a desire to adopt it. If they are young enough for it to have an impact, it will be difficult for them to walk away from it. That is why the guidance and behavior of parents in the first years of a child’s life is so important. If parents like drugs, crime, and other antisocial stuff, chances are their kids will too.

That implies that children are programmed by parents, and that is true up to a point. But there are those who can resist what they are shown and run from evil to stay on a spiritual path. That is the test that God puts us to judge who is truly worthy.