Legalism is a sad substitute for righteousness. An improper interpretation of relationships. An imbalance of rules focus can cause children to believe a relationship is a function not a fellowship. Love is understood in terms of a manual's definition or a counselor's explanation. Compassion is swallowed up by the art of execution.
Bitterness finds a bed for roots of rules frustration.
When children are raised by rules instead of relational righteousness there is another hidden heartache. Breaking rules makes us rationalize our rebellion. It fuels a pride that begins to believe it is impregnable. Deception controls and conquers. Sorrows are only seconds away.