I have definitely been able to see the dynamics presented in the story of Achan in my own life experience – in my family growing up choosing scapegoats as needed between siblings; in my former religious community this was done constantly by the superior and it is freeing to understand that this is something humans do universally and that we do NOT have to attribute the source of our monstrous behaviors to God because if we did then God would not be safe. I also recognize that I have played the game zealously myself to give myself a boost many times. I also have been reflecting on James’ talk at a retreat after 9/11 and this is a great example of how quickly we allow ourselves to be sucked in as a nation given the right conditions and I want to be on my guard because it is a tremendous temptation and so destructive.