Whatever Became of Sin?

In 1973 Dr. Karl Menninger, a patriarch of American psychiatry, published his book, Whatever Became of Sin?  His writings are some of those classics to which I often return.  His thesis is that when a person has behaviors and attitudes that are in opposition to their primary values, ethics, morals, basic beliefs, etc., then a personal tension is created which eventually leads to mental, emotional, social, spiritual and relationship problems.  Some sins are done by commission, such as an affair; while other sins are done by omission, for example taking others for granted.  Some sins seem to be culturally approved, such as greed.  Whatever the sin, the consequences are troublesome.  All major religions teach that sins are primarily dealt with by confession and repentance.  Our places of worship have rituals to help us with our regular need of confession and repentance.  Some therapies can also provide us with the means for confession and repentance.  Sin is our constant companion and good health requires that we deal with that reality.  Denial and avoidance have never worked very well if our goal is good health and positive relationships.