A response to "The Strength of Blood"

A mister Renthark has recently postulated that a child's criminal record may, with complete accuracy, be predicted by a look at the criminal records of his blood-parents. Mister Renthark included this theory as an introduction to his self-published and appropriately titled "Renthark Guide to Parenting", in which he pushed the dogma of his Deitess as the maxim of maximal success in the rearing of children. As to the power of his Lady, and her ability to affect the personalities and fates of all those born into realms, I cannot speak to it. In the eyes of my own Lord I am a failure, and can speak little to the affairs of the gods. But to prospective parents, I would rather recommend Shiallia; and to parents of children already coming of age, I should on good authority recommend Chauntea. No doubt the Lady of Misfortune plays an important role in preventing birth defects and other pre- and post-natal maladies. The same can no doubt be said of other deities, both of kindness and tyranny.

As to the actual role one's blood plays in determining whether a child is or is not a delinquent in his life, I most disagree with the stance Renthark has taken vehemently. While I do not question the validity and truthfulness with which he presented his examples, I must emphasize that his examples were only two, and that of the millions and millions of souls who inhabit Abeir-Toril, there are mountains of evidence which will run in support of his claim, and just as many to refute it. Simply a look into history will show dozens of prominent figures- men of great virtue whose seed gave rise to terrible tyrants. Even the staunchest of lawmen have come from the bellies of whores.

I myself am a criminal, born of Good and Just parents, and so I can do nothing but deny the idea that Criminals are born. I have extrapolated on the origins of the outlaw before, as some people may remember me for, and I hold by my stance. A criminal is not born. A criminal is made from circumstance; and while (mis)fortune without a doubt does play some role in, at least, the formation of those specific circumstances, even the most low-born scum-sucker of a boy can become a righteous man. The reverse holds just as true; see how many nobles live lives of decadence and immorality.

I could go on to refute more of mister Renthark's guide to parenting, however it is not my wish to step on any scholar's toes. I have only this to say, as it is in response to a point I found particularly troublesome - I quote it here:

Renthark My child has been committing criminal behavior, and I am concerned about his future.

Not all illegal behavior is frowned upon by the faith, especially when government becomes excessively tyrannical. Behavior outside the law that brings honor to you and the church is welcome. Confusion is natural in these cases, so it is best to rely on the Maid's judgment.

All citizens have a responsibility to the government, just as governments to their citizens. Every citizen is responsible for following the laws he lives under. Accepting the benefits of living in a city under a government implies acceptance of its laws. To break this contract is to accept punishment when it comes. It is for this reason, to use a current example, that I stow my blade in the realm of Montezzi, and when in Sanctuary will only sell goods in the marketplace, which I am taxed for the use of. Being in these lands implies consent to their laws and customs, and acceptance of the consequences when they are broken. To reject or escape the consequences of your actions is to live in an imbalance, which will quickly right itself, often to your own devastation. It is my suggestion to parents that they ensure their children know this, as early in their lives as possible, such that they may be in closest accord with Natural Law.

-Reynart Sanas