In the middle of service this morning, I really had to pee.

So, after a fiasco removing myself from the pew, I made my way to the back of the sanctuary and out to the bathroom. Inside, I could hear the conversation taking place between a father and a son in a nearby stall.

"I don't want to have to do this . . . but you've left me no choice."

Unseen, a little boy sniffled.

"I don't like hurting you, but you have to learn discipline."

I could almost hear the boy's knees knocking.

"You'll thank me someday."

It was almost full-fledged crying now. I heard the sound of a few sharp blows to the rear.

"I have to punish you because I love you."

Funny how that works, isn't it?