Mother: Caleb, I realize the draw of the supernatural upon young minds and hearts, but you must resist the efforts of the Wicked One. He seeks you as his prey, and once he gets his talons into you, he will sweep you away from the loving embrace of the Organization.
Caleb: Your concern for my spiritual welfare is well intentioned, I'm certain, Mother; however, Jehovah has given all his creatures free will, and that would include Wacky Wizard. We converse at great length and he has revealed to me that the true power of the universe lies within his tiny, wizened hands.
Mother: I'm afraid, son, that Satan is talking to you through the Wiz! Please hand him over to me immediately. I propose to burn him before he possesses your body. It would appear that he's already overtaken your heart. Give him to me now, Sweetheart.
Caleb: You're overreacting, Mother. During Family Worship, since its inception after the summary dismissal of book study, Father has sought to wield a strong and unreasoning hand in the spiritual direction our little family takes. As a failed elder, Father seeks to establish himself as spiritual mentor and unchallenged autocrat in this household. Of course, as the submissive helpmeet, you, Mother, are expected to follow through with his directives by the employment of positive reinforcement of so-called theocratic mores.
Mother: It would seem, Caleb, that you own a not inaccurate but, yet, somewhat jaded view of your parents' role in all matters spiritual. I have to admit that I, too, am drawn to the dark side. Naturally, I have learned to keep my counsel as your father can become irrational and combative when I endeavor to make a point.
Caleb: I commiserate with you, Mother. Father is merely a puppet and does what he thinks best. Nevertheless, I must follow my heart and do as Wacky Wizard so lovingly directs. He is Jehovah's mouthpiece, of that I have no doubt.
Mother: Godspeed, Son. I'll do my best to help Father understand that even minor children have freedom of choice ...
