ENTRAPMENT

Have you ever watched the tv show where law enforcement sets up a sting operation and they place a bicycle or something of value in plain sight for a passerby to be tempted to steal it?

I honestly believe that nine out of ten of us would continue to walk by but what if the bait was something of more value?

What if there was an expensive watch, or a diamond ring worth thousands? Would that be enough to lure you into committing a crime?

I'm not the greatest with numbers but my guess is half of us would not be tempted in the least.

If anything, we would be concerned for the person that lost possession of the valuable item.

The purpose of this sting operation is to provide the opportunity for one to willingly take the bait. The trap is set, but ultimately the individual has free will to become ensnared or continue about their day.

Unfortunately, we all know what happens if they do take the bait. The repercussion is far greater than the value of the item. Always.

I'm sure you are wondering by now why in the world would I choose this topic for today's blog.

As you know, I have not had personal social media for years now and I also have been somewhat incognito for just as long.

Many friends from my childhood haven't seen me in years although we have lived nearby each other.

Recently someone posted a picture of me on their personal social media page and that is when the trap was set.

My friend called me and said "I am not trying to gossip but..."

I knew instantly I had a choice to make.

"Inquiring minds" wanted to know so obviously I said "ooh tell me!!"

The first object of temptation was placed in the snare. But, it wasn't enough to fully lure me in.

As she continued, she told me that a good friend of mine (one that I haven't seen in a very very very long time) called her and said that I looked like I had plastic surgery.

That was enough in the trap to stop me in my tracks. At this point, I stood and stared at the item set in this snare and considered taking that bait.

This particular entrapment is named "OFFENDED."

And this is not the only example of opportunities that I had to get offended. The days leading up to this conversation, I had several instances that left me feeling left out, hurt, and rejected.

I like to blame it on hormones but the truth of the matter is, this was a trap.

If I were to allow the things that people say about me or their behavior regarding me, to entice me, persuade me, allure me into offense, I failed the test.

Living offended, bitter, resentment, angry is the equivalent of being imprisoned.

If you choose to listen to the "gossip" then you better have enough fortitude not to get offended.

WHEN the opportunity presents itself, dig deep not to let the feelings of rejection over take you.

Allowing your feelings to easily get hurt is the bicycle on the side street unchained.

You have a choice to make, you can take the bait or you can continue on your journey.

It's a trap. It's always a trap. Most often of the time, the "valuables" set in the trap are enough to ensnare you.

Walk on by...

YOU ARE DESIGNED TO REIGN IN LIFE

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