In the normal rhythm of the pride cycle, the Nephites usually go from righteous to wicked in a matter of several years. Mormon had elsewhere lamented, thus six years had not passed away since the more part of the people had turned from their righteousness, like the dog to his vomit, or like the sow to her wallowing in the mire (3 Nephi 7:8). In this instance, they had been giving thanks and praise to God with much prayer and fasting within the last year (Alma 45:1). Their gratitude had turned to dissension in less than 12 months!