Rocky

The entire third chapter of Mama's Last Hug discusses empathy and sympathy. I go back in my mind to reflect on the lack of concern both Wierwille and Martindale consistently (at least in the open) demonstrated toward those outside of the "in group." They, of course, defined the "in group" as the Household." Further defined as those who "took the class and stood with twi." I have long viewed that position as callous and lacking in the care necessary to properly exercise the Ministry of Reconciliation. See II Cor 5:17-19. Personally, I can almost understand how/why those two (Victor and Loy) wouldn't be able to grasp the ministry of reconciliation because so much has been studied and written about empathy since the end of the personal ministries (inside of twi) of both of them. Then again, had either or both of them actually been "tapped in" to the love of God, instead of being more concerned about using their personal position (power/authority) to satisfied their own old nature passions, they might have been able to figure it out without Frans de Waal or Dacher Keltner.

That IS a profound realization. My latest reading adventure, Mama's Last Hug, has likewise profound insight related to things GSCers have reflected on, including but not limited to "going farther than one has been led;" and learning by imitation, IOW how did we get there in the first place. It also highlights what Augustin Fuentes has said in YouTube shorts that rather than "we are what we eat," instead, we are (or become like) WHO WE MEET. (he says this at the 5:05 point in this video)

SMH

Btw, I appreciate comments on this thread made by waysider and Nathan. Thank you.

You have NO idea what I want. You've pointed out plenty of things that have no connection or relevance to this thread's topic. Where's that darn mute button?

I'm not sure what you meant by that. However, I can say your previous response: Didn't seem to address emotional issues in raising children.

There's also the emotional guidance/support aspect of raising kids to give plenty of consideration to. But thanks for clarifying what you meant.

Great insight. I also hope he gets plenty of emotional validation from you so he doesn't need to seek it elsewhere.

Not related to providing any parent with any insight on how to prepare their own children for life while minimizing the child's vulnerability to cult predation. I'm getting the impression waysider that you're either trolling intentionally or just don't understand the question.

If a reader isn't interested in the actual question for discussion. There's no need to respond at all.

Really? That's all you've got? Not one thing Bolshevik has posted on this thread has been at all relevant to discussion of the question. Usurpation would be a political question. Not only is it off limits but do I need to count the number of times I have noted on the thread it's unrelated to the topic at hand. Let me reiterate the question:

If only you weren't so #%^&*#ing obtuse.

And how can parents raising their children inoculate THEIR children from cult predation? This is the essence of the question I intended to be the subject of this thread. Any ideas?

That's true, but clearly outside the scope of the topic of this thread.

Another way to state a related question might be, "WHY are humans vulnerable to cults in the first place?"

Meaningful social (acceptance) attachments where we FEEL like we're seen and heard and understood. I just don't know why this subject is so difficult.

Honestly, I don't seem to be getting through to you. It's NOT about belonging to any external group or entity. But I do appreciate realizing the participants in this discussion are somehow unable to grasp the key insight. Maybe I'll be able to figure out how to get the point across someday. Amor fati.

It's not a metaphor for anything. In case you're unable to look things up yourself, noun An extremely difficult experience or situation; a severe test or trial: synonym: trial. One (including me) would hope you would successfully emerge from the situation having had substantial emotional healing and growth. You do know I neither invited you to this discussion nor barely tolerate you, right?

I hope you emerge from the crucible in which you seem entrenched very soon.

https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/sense-belonging/202202/the-science-behind-our-need-belong

Now, where is that confounded MUTE button?