Self Knowledge

I rush around the world like Santa Claus. Except, of course, he only does it once a year, but I go round and round. In your common parlance I’m at it twenty-four seven. The other difference is that everyone looks forward to a visit from Santa, but nobody looks forward to a visit from me.
I take many forms. Anubis is one of my favourites. It really puts the wind up them. Another favourite is the Archangel Michael, especially if I’m visiting someone who professes Christian faith.
Whatever my form, they eventually work out why I’m there. It’s the same the world over. They leap to their feet – It’s not fair – It’s not time – I have so much to do – You don’t understand. I always shake my head – I’m sorry, it is time. That’s when they notice the scales.
What’s that for?
It’s to weigh your soul.
I say it as cheerfully as possible because it seems to disturb them even more if I use my deep creepy voice.
They tell me they’ve been good, kept all the commandments. I ask what is the greatest commandment? They reply instantly – Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. When I ask if they have followed this commandment they always nod vigorously.
Then I ask what is the second greatest commandment? There is usually a pause, some hesitation followed by a triumphant – Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
I ask if they have followed this second commandment. As they chew their lips and look at their feet, I pass my hand through them and place their soul in the scales. Then I turn back to face them.