wolf in sheep's clothing

Thunder only happens when it's raining. Players only love you when they're playing. ~ Dreams by Fleetwood Mac

The worst kind of player is the Christian kind. There is nothing wrong with being a wolf among wolves. But when one infiltrates the fold under the guise of being a harmless, upstanding member equally interested in fidelity and commitment? Well, it is not an exaggeration to say that slaughter often results. Sheep that survive carry their devastation into future interactions, casting suspicions and aspersions where none is deserved; though they have valuable insight to lend to others, they hide in shame and embarrassment. The wolf, on the other hand, easily regroups and moves onto the next victim.

The basics of an adequate wolf-protection plan are not very different from those of the personal safety regime. First, exercise caution. Do not assume safety on the basis of geography alone. It is obviously not a good idea to stumble around, half-inebriated, alone at 2 a.m. in a "bad" neighborhood, but it's generally a bad idea to do that in any neighborhood. Likewise, just because the guy goes to church doesn't mean... much, really.

Second, establish communal security. Report suspicious activities to the proper authorities. Don't look away and drive away when your neighbor is getting mugged. In the aftermath of a wolf attack, there are always people who sigh and shake their heads at the outcome that they had foreseen all along. Um, where were you sages before stuff hit the fan?

Third, hold law enforcement accountable. If the police consistently refuses to respond, pester them, go over their heads, petition elected officials who fear unhappy constituents, make them do their jobs. Pastors are responsible, as shepherds, for protecting the flock. Wolves should not get a free pass just because they volunteer a lot or are friendly with people in high places. Some types of wolves should be shot from helicopters.