There is a show that talks about the presence of angels with us. It is an episode in a series called Swedenborg and Life, which explores all manner of topics around spirituality. The speaker offered two lists describing qualities that contrast angelic and hellish influences. I found this helpful. 

The devilish one sounded too close for comfort. 

"Endless chatter. Tells us what to do. Feeds on fear. Tells us what to believe. Consists of evil and falsity."

Yup. I have been hounded by that relentless yammering. 

Just last week the culprits pounced on what was a jubilant evening. The twins were going to their first Sadie Hawkins dance, and the house was a flutter with borrowing dresses, hair styles, dashing to the store for eyeliner, picking shoes, texting, and confirming the reservation at a restaurant. Then the diabolical crew kicked in. 

"Are you stuck driving all six kids both ways? How unfair. Don't stand for it. Make some other parents help too...." It was pathetic. I am frankly embarrassed to admit it. Before I had a chance to lay out these arguments, handed to me like a subpoena from a sleezy lawyer, John spoke. 

"I'll drive."

In the vastly clearer light of a few days later I see why. Who wouldn't want to be the fly on the wall as our darling daughters stepped into this new ground of young womanhood? Be privy to their conversations to and from dinner? What kind of fool misses out on that for the price of gas???? 

The list that describes angelic influence has an entirely different ambience. 

"Subtle. Supportive. Does not dictate. Based on truth and goodness. Symbolic. Respects our freedom. Unwilling to frighten. Avoids telling us what to do or believe."

Deep exhale.