Sad blots!(Octavius Winslow, "None Like Christ" 1866)How much is true religion shorn of its strengthby the lack of more spiritual-mindedness in itsprofessors! The worldly amusements to whichmany addict themselves . . . the opera, the card-playing, the ball, the gay party, the novel-reading, the luxurious living, the extravagant customs,in which multitudes of religious professors indulge,are sad blots upon their avowed Christianity, andgreat hindrances to the advancement of religion intheir own souls and in the world.Oh! that with us vital religionthe pure, simple,self-denying, unearthly religion of Christmightbe paramount; its holy influence permeating ourwhole being, and giving form and tint and directionto all our engagements and conduct.
Reminds me of chewing gum and talking as the cardinal transgressions of 50's High School Students. ;-)
_________________Robert Wurtz II