Vicarious Goal Fulfillment

Human psychology is a funny thing.

I read a bunch of dry journal articles that I would not wish upon an enemy, but sometimes I come across something fascinating. I describe in the video below a study that found that people can practice "vicarious goal fulfillment."

People might say they want to see eat healthy, but when they see a healthy option on the menu, they often end up ordering something greasy. They're not lying. They want to be healthy. But merely seeing the healthy option satisfies their desire to behave well.

They might think, "Someone must be eating a salad — and surely, I will one of these days — so for now, I'll order the French fries!"

Something similar can happen in the Church. All Christians are called to holiness and mission, but some Catholics may think that's the priest's job or that's the type of thing for one of the saints. Someone else can share the Good News. 

But, of course, it doesn't work like that. Your parents may have chosen to get you baptized, but no one can live your baptismal call for you. 

Spiritual health requires choosing the holy option.