If I were devising rites of initiation a key ingredient would not be hazing but instead serious demonstrations of trust. I would place the novices in ambiguous situations so that the only way they could proceed would be through trust in the yet unknown. This would require action, effort, and commitment while in a state of ignorance. Such an initiation would mimic the necessity of spiritual trust required to move forward in daily life. The faltering of this trust is destructive of the benefits of cheerfulness. Instead, where there is doubt, self-doubt and negativity begin to curse and weigh down our lives. Trust and faith bestow God’s favor for such is the doorway to Heaven. It encourages honesty and forthrightness and is the only victorious antidote to fear.
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