In the Shallows

I didn’t have much money in college, but that didn’t stop the bills. There were things I needed (college… so expensive!) and a beautiful girl I enjoyed dating (Ashley!). I wanted extra money to take Ashley to an expensive restaurant, and I found the perfect company to aid me in my righteous quest.

I attended their meeting, and the speaker promised endless riches. Everything sounded legitimate as I listened to his silver tongue slap against the roof of his mouth. Yes, I could do it! Yes, I would be a millionaire! No more money woes! I gave him $500 to get started.

I hit the streets. I printed out flyers and created a website. I even sold product, but it was very difficult. My recruiter was encouraging, even though I struggled in my sales.

After a month of hard work—without pay—I finally realized I was in a pyramid scheme. The speaker was making money from new recruits and from my sales. I ended my relationship with the company, and Ashley and I laughed our way to McDonald’s.

In our lives, we will meet people who appear authentic. They claim to be Christian. They care about us. They want us to succeed. But with time, their true motives become known. The Bible says in Matthew 7:15–20 that we will know them by their fruits. In other words, given enough time—whether small or large—their intentions will become evident.

In Legacy of the Kings, there is a character who fulfills this role of falsehood. Waide is dangerous and sent by Sahib with an evil agenda. Although he looks human (or Christian), he’s actually a troll. He speaks with a hiss because he’s a snake in the grass.

The name Waide means “shallow river dweller.” His intentions are self‑motivated and only skin‑deep. Also, Waiden is a human territory in LOTK. I removed an “n” to get Waide, further deepening his deception. Remove these people from your life, because their agenda does not include your well‑being.

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Deuteronomy 31:6