The March Primary Class

The March Primary ClassTo the Primary Class of the Massachusetts MetaphysicalCollege, 571 Columbus Avenue, that Assembled Feb. 25,1889, with an Attendance of Sixty-five StudentsMy students, three picture-stories from the Bible pre-sent themselves to my thought; three of those picturesfrom which we learn without study. The first is that of [15]Joshua and his band before the walls of Jericho. Theywent seven times around these walls, the seven timescorresponding to the seven days of creation: the six daysare to find out the nothingness of matter; the seventhis the day of rest, when it is found that evil is naught [20]and good is all.The second picture is of the disciples met together inan upper chamber; and they were of one mind. Mark,that in the case of Joshua and his band they had all toshouttogetherin order that the walls might fall; and the [25]disciples, too, were of one mind.We, to-day, in this class-room, are enough to con-vert the world if we are of one Mind; for then the wholeworld will feel the influence of this Mind; as when[pg 280]earth was without form, and Mind spake and form [1]appeared.The third picture-lesson is from Revelation, where, atthe opening of the seals, one of the angels presented him-self with balances to weigh the thoughts and actions of [5]men; not angels with wings, but messengers of pure andholy thoughts that say, See thou hurt not the holy thingsof Truth.You have come to be weighed; and yet, I would notweigh you, nor have you weighed. How is this? Be- [10]cause God does all, and there is nothing in the oppositescale. There are not two,—Mindandmatter. Wemust get rid of that notion. As we commonly think, weimagine all is well if we cast something into the scale ofMind, but we must realize that Mind is not put into the [15]scales with matter; then only are we working on one sideand in Science.The students of this Primary class, dismissed the fifthof March, at close of the lecture on the fourth presentedtheir teacher with an elegant album costing fifty dollars, [20]and containing beautiful hand-painted flowers on eachpage, with their autographs. The presentation was madein a brief address by Mr. D.A. Easton, who in appro-priate language and metaphor expressed his fellow-students'thanks to their teacher. [25]On the morning of the fifth, I met the class to answersome questions before their dismissal, and allude brieflyto a topic of great import to the student of ChristianScience,—the rocks and sirens in their course, on andby which so many wrecks are made. The doors of animal [30]magnetism open wide for the entrance of error, some-times just at the moment when you are ready to enter on[pg 281]the fruition of your labors, and with laudable ambition [1]are about to chant hymns of victory for triumphs.The doors that this animal element flings open arethose of rivalry, jealousy, envy, revenge. It is the self-asserting mortal will-power that you must guard against. [5]But I find also another mental condition of yours thatfills me with joy. I learned long ago that the world couldneither deprive me of something nor give me anything,and I have now one ambition and one joy. But ifone cherishes ambition unwisely, one will be chastened [10]for it.Admiral Coligny, in the time of the French Huguenots,was converted to Protestantism through a stray copy ofthe Scriptures that fell into his hands. He replied to hiswife, who urged him to come out and confess his faith, [15]“It is wise to count the cost of becoming a true Chris-tian.”She answered him,“It is wiser to count the costofnotbecoming a true Christian.”So, whatever we meetthat is hard in the Christian warfare we must count asnothing, and must think instead, of our poverty and help- [20]lessness without this understanding, and count ourselvesalways as debtors to Christ, Truth.Among the gifts of my students, this of yours is oneof the most beautiful and the most costly, because youhave signed your names. I felt the weight of this yes- [25]terday, but it came to me more clearly this morning whenI realized what a responsibility you assume when sub-scribing to Christian Science. But, whatever may cometo you, remember the words of Solomon,“Though handjoin in hand, the wicked shall not go unpunished: but [30]the seed of the righteous shall be delivered.”You will need, in future,practicemore than theory.[pg 282]You are going out to demonstrate a living faith, a true [1]sense of the infinite good, a sense that does not limit God,but brings to human view an enlarged sense of Deity.Remember, it is personality, and the sense of personalityin God or in man, that limits man. [5]Obtrusive Mental HealingThe question will present itself: Shall people be treatedmentally without their knowledge or consent? Thedirect rule for practice of Christian Science is the GoldenRule,“As ye would that men should do to you, do ye,”[10]Who of us would have our houses broken open or ourlocks picked? and much less would we have our mindstampered with.Our Master said,“When ye enter a house, salute it.”Prolonging the metaphysical tone of his command, I say, [15]When you enter mentally the personal precincts of humanthought, you should know that the person with whomyou hold communion desires it. There are solitary ex-ceptions to most given rules: the following is an exceptionto the above rule of mental practice. [20]If the friends of a patient desire you to treat him with-out his knowing it, and they believe in the efficacy ofMind-healing, it is sometimes wise to do so, and the endjustifies the means; for he is restored through ChristianScience when other means have failed. One other oc- [25]casion which may call for aid unsought, is a case fromaccident, when there is no time for ceremony and no otheraid is near.The abuse which I call attention to, is promiscuous[pg 283]and unannounced mental practice where there is no neces- [1]sity for it, or the motive is mercenary, or one can to ad-vantage speak the truth audibly; then the case is notexceptional. As a rule, one has no more right to enterthe mind of a person, stir, upset, and adjust his thoughts [5]without his knowledge or consent, than one has to entera house, unlock the desk, displace the furniture, and suitone's self in the arrangement and management of anotherman's property.It would be right to break into a burning building and [10]rouse the slumbering inmates, but wrong to burst opendoors and break through windows if no emergency de-manded this. Any exception to the old wholesome rule,“Mind your own business,”is rare. For a student ofmine to treat another student without his knowledge, is [15]a breach of good manners and morals; it is nothing lessthan a mistaken kindness, a culpable ignorance, or aconscious trespass on the rights of mortals.I insist on the etiquette of Christian Science, as wellas its morals and Christianity. The Scriptural rule of [20]this Science may momentarily be forgotten; but this isseldom the case with loyal students, or done withoutincriminating the person who did it.Each student should, must, work out his own problemof being; conscious, meanwhile, that God worketh with [25]him, and that he needs no personal aid. It is the geniusof Christian Science to demonstrate good, not evil,—harmony, not discord; for Science is the mandate ofTruth which destroys all error.Whoever is honestly laboring to learn the principle of [30]music and practise it, seldom calls on his teacher or mu-sician to practise for him. The only personal help re-[pg 284]quired in this Science is for each one to do his own work [1]well, and never try to hinder others from doing theirsthus.Christian Science, more than any other system ofreligion, morals, or medicine, is subject to abuses. Its [5]infinite nature and uses occasion this. Even the human-itarian at work in this field of limitless power and goodmay possess a zeal without knowledge, and thus mistakethe sphere of his present usefulness.Students who strictly adhere to the right, and make the [10]Bible and Science and Health a study, are in no dangerof mistaking their way.This question is often proposed, How shall I treatmalicious animal magnetism? The hour has passed forthis evil to be treated personally, but it should have been [15]so dealt with at the outset. Christian Scientists shouldhave gone personally to the malpractitioner and toldhim his fault, and vindicated divine Truth and Loveagainst human error and hate. This growing sin mustnow be dealt with as evil, and not as an evil-doer or per- [20]sonality It must also be remembered that neither an evilclaim nor an evil person isreal, hence is neither to befearednor honored.Evil is not something to fear and flee before, or thatbecomes more real when it is grappled with. Evil let [25]alone grows more real, aggressive, and enlarges its claims;but, met with Science, it can and will be mastered byScience.I deprecate personal animosities and quarrels. But ifone is intrusted with the rules of church government, to [30]fulfil that trust those rules must be carried out; thus itis with all moral obligations. I am opposed to all personal[pg 285]attacks, and in favor of combating evil only, rather than [1]person.An edition of one thousand pamphlets I ordered tobe laid away and not one of them circulated, because Ihad been personal in condemnation. Afterwards, by a [5]blunder of the gentleman who fills orders for my books,some of these pamphlets were mistaken for the correctededition, and sold.Love is the fulfilling of the law. Human life is tooshort for foibles or failures.The Christian Science Jour-[10]nalwill hold high the banner of Truth and Love, and beimpartial and impersonal in its tenor and tenets.WedlockIt was about the year 1875 that Science and Healthfirst crossed swords with free-love, and the latter fellhors[15]de combat; but the whole warfare of sensuality was notthen ended. Science and Health, the book that cast thefirst stone, is still at work, deep down in human conscious-ness, laying the axe at the root of error.We have taken the precaution to write briefly on mar- [20]riage, showing its relation to Christian Science. In thepresent or future, some extra throe of error may conjureup a new-style conjugality, which,ad libitum, severs themarriage covenant, puts virtue in the shambles, andcoolly notifies the public of broken vows. Springing [25]up from the ashes of free-love, this nondescript phoenix,in the face and eyes of common law, common sense, andcommon honesty, may appear in therôleof a superfineconjugality; but, having no Truth, it will have no past,present, or future. [30][pg 286]The above prophecy, written years ago, has already [1]been fulfilled. It is seen in Christian Science that thegospel of marriage is not without the law, and the solemnvow of fidelity,“until death do us part;”this verity inhuman economy can neither be obscured nor throttled. [5]Until time matures human growth, marriage and progenywill continue unprohibited in Christian Science. We lookto future generations for ability to comply with absoluteScience, when marriage shall be found to be man's one-ness with God,—the unity of eternal Love. At present, [10]more spiritual conception and education of children willserve to illustrate the superiority of spiritual power oversensuous, and usher in the dawn of God's creation,wherein they neither marry nor are given in marriage,but are as the angels. To abolish marriage at this period, [15]and maintain morality and generation, would put inge-nuity to ludicrous shifts; yet this is possible inScience,although it is to-day problematic.The time cometh, and now is, for spiritual and eternalexistence to be recognized and understood in Science. [20]All is Mind. Human procreation, birth, life, and deathare subjective states of the human erring mind; theyare the phenomena of mortality, nothingness, that illus-trate mortal mind and body asone, and neither real noreternal. [25]It should be understood that Spirit, God, is the onlycreator: we should recognize this verity of being, andshut out all sense of other claims. Until this absoluteScience of being is seen, understood, and demonstratedin the offspring of divine Mind, and man is perfect even [30]as the Father is perfect, human speculation will go on,and stop at length at the spiritual ultimate: creation[pg 287]understood as the most exalted divine conception. The [1]offspring of an improved generation, however, will go outbefore the forever fact that man is eternal and has nohuman origin. Hence the Scripture:“It is He that hathmade us, and not we ourselves;”and the Master's de- [5]mand,“Call no man your father upon the earth: for oneis your Father, which is in heaven.”To an ill-attuned ear, discord is harmony; so personalsense, discerning not the legitimate affection of Soul,may place love on a false basis and thereby lose it. Science [10]corrects this error with the truth of Love, and restoreslost Eden. Soul is the infinite source of bliss: only highand holy joy can satisfy immortal cravings. The goodin human affections should preponderate over the evil,and the spiritual over the animal,—until progress lifts [15]mortals to discern the Science of mental formation andfind the highway of holiness.In the order of wisdom, the higher nature of mangoverns the lower. This lays the foundations of humanaffection in line with progress, giving them strength and [20]permanence.When asked by a wife or a husband important ques-tions concerning their happiness, the substance of my replyis: God will guide you. Be faithful over home rela-tions; they lead to higher joys: obey the Golden Rule [25]for human life, and it will spare you much bitterness.It is pleasanter to do right than wrong; it makes oneruler over one's self and hallows home,—which is woman'sworld. Please your husband, and he will be apt to pleaseyou; preserve affection on both sides. [30]Great mischief comes from attempts to steady otherpeople's altars, venturing on valor without discretion,[pg 288]which is virtually meddlesomeness. Even your sincere [1]and courageous convictions regarding what is best forothers may be mistaken; you must be demonstrativelyright yourself, and work out the greatest good to thegreatest number, before you are sure of being a fit coun- [5]sellor. Positive and imperative thoughts should be droppedinto the balances of God and weighed by spiritual Love,and not be found wanting, before being put into action.A rash conclusion that regards only one side of a ques-tion, is weak and wicked; this error works out the results [10]of error. If the premise of mortal existence is wrong,any conclusion drawn therefrom is not absolutely right.Wisdom in human action begins with what is nearestright under the circumstances, and thence achieves theabsolute. [15]Is marriage nearer right than celibacy?Human knowledge inculcates that it is, while Scienceindicates that itis not. But to force the consciousnessof scientific being before it is understood is impossible,and believing otherwise would prevent scientific demon- [20]stration. To reckon the universal cost and gain, as wellas thine own, is right in every state and stage of being.The selfishrôleof a martyr is the shift of a dishonestmind, nothing short of self-seeking; and real sufferingwould stop the farce. [25]The cause of temperance receives a strong impulsefrom the cause of Christian Science: temperance andtruth are allies, and their cause prospers in proportionto the spirit of Love that nerves the struggle. Peoplewill differ in their opinions as to means to promote the [30]ends of temperance; that is, abstinence from intoxicat-ing beverages. Whatever intoxicates a man, stultifies,[pg 289]and causes him to degenerate physically and morally. [1]Strong drink is unquestionably an evil, and evil cannotbe used temperately: its slightest use is abuse; hencethe only temperance is total abstinence. Drunkennessis sensuality let loose, in whatever form it is made [5]manifest.What is evil? It is suppositional absence of good.From a human standpoint of good, mortals must firstchoose between evils, and of two evils choose the less;and at present the application of scientific rules to hu- [10]man life seems to rest on this basis.All partnerships are formed on agreements to certaincompacts: each party voluntarily surrenders independ-ent action to act as a whole and per agreement. Thisfact should be duly considered when by the marriage [15]contract two are made one, and, according to the divineprecept,“they twain shall be one flesh.”Oneness inspirit is Science, compatible with home and heaven.Neither divine justice nor human equity hasdivorcedtwo minds in one. [20]Rights that are bargained away must not be retakenby the contractors, except by mutual consent. Humannature has bestowed on a wife the right to become amother; but if the wife esteems not this privilege, bymutual consent, exalted and increased affections, she [25]may win a higher. Science touches the conjugal ques-tion on the basis of a bill of rights. Can the bill of con-jugal rights be fairly stated by a magistrate, or by aminister? Mutual interests and affections are the spiritof these rights, and they should be consulted, augmented, [30]and allowed to rise to the spiritual altitude whence theycan choose only good.[pg 290]A third person is not a party to the compact of two [1]hearts. Let other people's marriage relationsalone: twopersons only, should be found within their precincts.The nuptial vow is never annulled so long as the animusof the contract is preserved intact. Science lifts humanity [5]higher in the scale of harmony, and must ultimately breakall bonds that hinder progress.Judge NotMistaken views ought to be dissolving views, sincewhatever is false should disappear. To suppose that hu- [10]man love, guided by the divine Principle, which is Love,is partial, unmerciful, or unjust, indicates misapprehen-sion of the divine Principle and its workings in the humanheart.A person wrote to me, naming the time of the occur- [15]rence,“I felt the influence of your thought on my mind,and it produced a wonderful illumination, peace, andunderstanding;”but, I had not thought of the writerat that time. I knew that this person was doing well,and my affections involuntarily flow out towards all. [20]When will the world cease to judge of causes from apersonal sense of things, conjectural and misapprehen-sive! When thought dwells in God,—and it should not,to our consciousness, dwell elsewhere,—one must bene-fit those who hold a place in one's memory, whether it [25]be friend or foe, and each share the benefit of that radia-tion. This individual blessedness and blessing comesnot so much from individual as from universal love: itemits light because it reflects; and all who are receptiveshare this equally. [30][pg 291]Mistaken or transient views are human: they are not [1]governed by the Principle of divine Science: but thenotion that a mind governed by Principle can be forcedinto personal channels, affinities, self-interests, or obliga-tions, is a grave mistake; it dims the true sense of God's [5]reflection, and darkens the understanding that demon-strates above personal motives, unworthy aims andambitions.Too much and too little is attached to me as authorityfor other people's thoughts and actions. A tacit acqui- [10]escence with others' views is often construed as directorders,—or at least it so appears in results. I desirethe equal growth and prosperity of all Christian Scien-tists, and the world in general; each and every one hasequal opportunity to be benefited by my thoughts and [15]writings. If any are not partakers thereof, this is notmy fault, and is far from my desire; the possible per-version of Christian Science is the irony of fate, if thespirit thereof be lacking. I would part with a blessingmyself to bestow it upon others, but could not deprive [20]them of it. False views, however engendered, relativeto the true and unswerving course of a Christian Scientist,will at length dissolve into thin air. The dew of heavenwill fall gently on the hearts and lives of all who are foundworthy to suffer for righteousness,—and have taught [25]the truth which is energizing, refreshing, and consecrat-ing mankind.To station justice and gratitude as sentinels along thelines of thought, would aid the solution of this problem,and counteract the influence of envious minds or the mis- [30]guided individual who keeps not watch over his emotionsand conclusions.[pg 292]

To the Primary Class of the Massachusetts MetaphysicalCollege, 571 Columbus Avenue, that Assembled Feb. 25,1889, with an Attendance of Sixty-five Students

To the Primary Class of the Massachusetts Metaphysical

College, 571 Columbus Avenue, that Assembled Feb. 25,

1889, with an Attendance of Sixty-five Students

My students, three picture-stories from the Bible pre-sent themselves to my thought; three of those picturesfrom which we learn without study. The first is that of [15]Joshua and his band before the walls of Jericho. Theywent seven times around these walls, the seven timescorresponding to the seven days of creation: the six daysare to find out the nothingness of matter; the seventhis the day of rest, when it is found that evil is naught [20]and good is all.

My students, three picture-stories from the Bible pre-

sent themselves to my thought; three of those pictures

from which we learn without study. The first is that of [15]

Joshua and his band before the walls of Jericho. They

went seven times around these walls, the seven times

corresponding to the seven days of creation: the six days

are to find out the nothingness of matter; the seventh

is the day of rest, when it is found that evil is naught [20]

and good is all.

The second picture is of the disciples met together inan upper chamber; and they were of one mind. Mark,that in the case of Joshua and his band they had all toshouttogetherin order that the walls might fall; and the [25]disciples, too, were of one mind.

The second picture is of the disciples met together in

an upper chamber; and they were of one mind. Mark,

that in the case of Joshua and his band they had all to

shouttogetherin order that the walls might fall; and the [25]

disciples, too, were of one mind.

We, to-day, in this class-room, are enough to con-vert the world if we are of one Mind; for then the wholeworld will feel the influence of this Mind; as when

We, to-day, in this class-room, are enough to con-

vert the world if we are of one Mind; for then the whole

world will feel the influence of this Mind; as when

earth was without form, and Mind spake and form [1]appeared.

earth was without form, and Mind spake and form [1]

appeared.

The third picture-lesson is from Revelation, where, atthe opening of the seals, one of the angels presented him-self with balances to weigh the thoughts and actions of [5]men; not angels with wings, but messengers of pure andholy thoughts that say, See thou hurt not the holy thingsof Truth.

The third picture-lesson is from Revelation, where, at

the opening of the seals, one of the angels presented him-

self with balances to weigh the thoughts and actions of [5]

men; not angels with wings, but messengers of pure and

holy thoughts that say, See thou hurt not the holy things

of Truth.

You have come to be weighed; and yet, I would notweigh you, nor have you weighed. How is this? Be- [10]cause God does all, and there is nothing in the oppositescale. There are not two,—Mindandmatter. Wemust get rid of that notion. As we commonly think, weimagine all is well if we cast something into the scale ofMind, but we must realize that Mind is not put into the [15]scales with matter; then only are we working on one sideand in Science.

You have come to be weighed; and yet, I would not

weigh you, nor have you weighed. How is this? Be- [10]

cause God does all, and there is nothing in the opposite

scale. There are not two,—Mindandmatter. We

must get rid of that notion. As we commonly think, we

imagine all is well if we cast something into the scale of

Mind, but we must realize that Mind is not put into the [15]

scales with matter; then only are we working on one side

and in Science.

The students of this Primary class, dismissed the fifthof March, at close of the lecture on the fourth presentedtheir teacher with an elegant album costing fifty dollars, [20]and containing beautiful hand-painted flowers on eachpage, with their autographs. The presentation was madein a brief address by Mr. D.A. Easton, who in appro-priate language and metaphor expressed his fellow-students'thanks to their teacher. [25]

The students of this Primary class, dismissed the fifth

of March, at close of the lecture on the fourth presented

their teacher with an elegant album costing fifty dollars, [20]

and containing beautiful hand-painted flowers on each

page, with their autographs. The presentation was made

in a brief address by Mr. D.A. Easton, who in appro-

priate language and metaphor expressed his fellow-students'

thanks to their teacher. [25]

On the morning of the fifth, I met the class to answersome questions before their dismissal, and allude brieflyto a topic of great import to the student of ChristianScience,—the rocks and sirens in their course, on andby which so many wrecks are made. The doors of animal [30]magnetism open wide for the entrance of error, some-times just at the moment when you are ready to enter on

On the morning of the fifth, I met the class to answer

some questions before their dismissal, and allude briefly

to a topic of great import to the student of Christian

Science,—the rocks and sirens in their course, on and

by which so many wrecks are made. The doors of animal [30]

magnetism open wide for the entrance of error, some-

times just at the moment when you are ready to enter on

the fruition of your labors, and with laudable ambition [1]are about to chant hymns of victory for triumphs.

the fruition of your labors, and with laudable ambition [1]

are about to chant hymns of victory for triumphs.

The doors that this animal element flings open arethose of rivalry, jealousy, envy, revenge. It is the self-asserting mortal will-power that you must guard against. [5]But I find also another mental condition of yours thatfills me with joy. I learned long ago that the world couldneither deprive me of something nor give me anything,and I have now one ambition and one joy. But ifone cherishes ambition unwisely, one will be chastened [10]for it.

The doors that this animal element flings open are

those of rivalry, jealousy, envy, revenge. It is the self-

asserting mortal will-power that you must guard against. [5]

But I find also another mental condition of yours that

fills me with joy. I learned long ago that the world could

neither deprive me of something nor give me anything,

and I have now one ambition and one joy. But if

one cherishes ambition unwisely, one will be chastened [10]

for it.

Admiral Coligny, in the time of the French Huguenots,was converted to Protestantism through a stray copy ofthe Scriptures that fell into his hands. He replied to hiswife, who urged him to come out and confess his faith, [15]“It is wise to count the cost of becoming a true Chris-tian.”She answered him,“It is wiser to count the costofnotbecoming a true Christian.”So, whatever we meetthat is hard in the Christian warfare we must count asnothing, and must think instead, of our poverty and help- [20]lessness without this understanding, and count ourselvesalways as debtors to Christ, Truth.

Admiral Coligny, in the time of the French Huguenots,

was converted to Protestantism through a stray copy of

the Scriptures that fell into his hands. He replied to his

wife, who urged him to come out and confess his faith, [15]

“It is wise to count the cost of becoming a true Chris-

tian.”She answered him,“It is wiser to count the cost

ofnotbecoming a true Christian.”So, whatever we meet

that is hard in the Christian warfare we must count as

nothing, and must think instead, of our poverty and help- [20]

lessness without this understanding, and count ourselves

always as debtors to Christ, Truth.

Among the gifts of my students, this of yours is oneof the most beautiful and the most costly, because youhave signed your names. I felt the weight of this yes- [25]terday, but it came to me more clearly this morning whenI realized what a responsibility you assume when sub-scribing to Christian Science. But, whatever may cometo you, remember the words of Solomon,“Though handjoin in hand, the wicked shall not go unpunished: but [30]the seed of the righteous shall be delivered.”

Among the gifts of my students, this of yours is one

of the most beautiful and the most costly, because you

have signed your names. I felt the weight of this yes- [25]

terday, but it came to me more clearly this morning when

I realized what a responsibility you assume when sub-

scribing to Christian Science. But, whatever may come

to you, remember the words of Solomon,“Though hand

join in hand, the wicked shall not go unpunished: but [30]

the seed of the righteous shall be delivered.”

You will need, in future,practicemore than theory.

You are going out to demonstrate a living faith, a true [1]sense of the infinite good, a sense that does not limit God,but brings to human view an enlarged sense of Deity.Remember, it is personality, and the sense of personalityin God or in man, that limits man. [5]

You are going out to demonstrate a living faith, a true [1]

sense of the infinite good, a sense that does not limit God,

but brings to human view an enlarged sense of Deity.

Remember, it is personality, and the sense of personality

in God or in man, that limits man. [5]

Obtrusive Mental HealingThe question will present itself: Shall people be treatedmentally without their knowledge or consent? Thedirect rule for practice of Christian Science is the GoldenRule,“As ye would that men should do to you, do ye,”[10]Who of us would have our houses broken open or ourlocks picked? and much less would we have our mindstampered with.Our Master said,“When ye enter a house, salute it.”Prolonging the metaphysical tone of his command, I say, [15]When you enter mentally the personal precincts of humanthought, you should know that the person with whomyou hold communion desires it. There are solitary ex-ceptions to most given rules: the following is an exceptionto the above rule of mental practice. [20]If the friends of a patient desire you to treat him with-out his knowing it, and they believe in the efficacy ofMind-healing, it is sometimes wise to do so, and the endjustifies the means; for he is restored through ChristianScience when other means have failed. One other oc- [25]casion which may call for aid unsought, is a case fromaccident, when there is no time for ceremony and no otheraid is near.The abuse which I call attention to, is promiscuous[pg 283]and unannounced mental practice where there is no neces- [1]sity for it, or the motive is mercenary, or one can to ad-vantage speak the truth audibly; then the case is notexceptional. As a rule, one has no more right to enterthe mind of a person, stir, upset, and adjust his thoughts [5]without his knowledge or consent, than one has to entera house, unlock the desk, displace the furniture, and suitone's self in the arrangement and management of anotherman's property.It would be right to break into a burning building and [10]rouse the slumbering inmates, but wrong to burst opendoors and break through windows if no emergency de-manded this. Any exception to the old wholesome rule,“Mind your own business,”is rare. For a student ofmine to treat another student without his knowledge, is [15]a breach of good manners and morals; it is nothing lessthan a mistaken kindness, a culpable ignorance, or aconscious trespass on the rights of mortals.I insist on the etiquette of Christian Science, as wellas its morals and Christianity. The Scriptural rule of [20]this Science may momentarily be forgotten; but this isseldom the case with loyal students, or done withoutincriminating the person who did it.Each student should, must, work out his own problemof being; conscious, meanwhile, that God worketh with [25]him, and that he needs no personal aid. It is the geniusof Christian Science to demonstrate good, not evil,—harmony, not discord; for Science is the mandate ofTruth which destroys all error.Whoever is honestly laboring to learn the principle of [30]music and practise it, seldom calls on his teacher or mu-sician to practise for him. The only personal help re-[pg 284]quired in this Science is for each one to do his own work [1]well, and never try to hinder others from doing theirsthus.Christian Science, more than any other system ofreligion, morals, or medicine, is subject to abuses. Its [5]infinite nature and uses occasion this. Even the human-itarian at work in this field of limitless power and goodmay possess a zeal without knowledge, and thus mistakethe sphere of his present usefulness.Students who strictly adhere to the right, and make the [10]Bible and Science and Health a study, are in no dangerof mistaking their way.This question is often proposed, How shall I treatmalicious animal magnetism? The hour has passed forthis evil to be treated personally, but it should have been [15]so dealt with at the outset. Christian Scientists shouldhave gone personally to the malpractitioner and toldhim his fault, and vindicated divine Truth and Loveagainst human error and hate. This growing sin mustnow be dealt with as evil, and not as an evil-doer or per- [20]sonality It must also be remembered that neither an evilclaim nor an evil person isreal, hence is neither to befearednor honored.Evil is not something to fear and flee before, or thatbecomes more real when it is grappled with. Evil let [25]alone grows more real, aggressive, and enlarges its claims;but, met with Science, it can and will be mastered byScience.I deprecate personal animosities and quarrels. But ifone is intrusted with the rules of church government, to [30]fulfil that trust those rules must be carried out; thus itis with all moral obligations. I am opposed to all personal[pg 285]attacks, and in favor of combating evil only, rather than [1]person.An edition of one thousand pamphlets I ordered tobe laid away and not one of them circulated, because Ihad been personal in condemnation. Afterwards, by a [5]blunder of the gentleman who fills orders for my books,some of these pamphlets were mistaken for the correctededition, and sold.Love is the fulfilling of the law. Human life is tooshort for foibles or failures.The Christian Science Jour-[10]nalwill hold high the banner of Truth and Love, and beimpartial and impersonal in its tenor and tenets.

The question will present itself: Shall people be treatedmentally without their knowledge or consent? Thedirect rule for practice of Christian Science is the GoldenRule,“As ye would that men should do to you, do ye,”[10]Who of us would have our houses broken open or ourlocks picked? and much less would we have our mindstampered with.

The question will present itself: Shall people be treated

mentally without their knowledge or consent? The

direct rule for practice of Christian Science is the Golden

Rule,“As ye would that men should do to you, do ye,”[10]

Who of us would have our houses broken open or our

locks picked? and much less would we have our minds

tampered with.

Our Master said,“When ye enter a house, salute it.”Prolonging the metaphysical tone of his command, I say, [15]When you enter mentally the personal precincts of humanthought, you should know that the person with whomyou hold communion desires it. There are solitary ex-ceptions to most given rules: the following is an exceptionto the above rule of mental practice. [20]

Our Master said,“When ye enter a house, salute it.”

Prolonging the metaphysical tone of his command, I say, [15]

When you enter mentally the personal precincts of human

thought, you should know that the person with whom

you hold communion desires it. There are solitary ex-

ceptions to most given rules: the following is an exception

to the above rule of mental practice. [20]

If the friends of a patient desire you to treat him with-out his knowing it, and they believe in the efficacy ofMind-healing, it is sometimes wise to do so, and the endjustifies the means; for he is restored through ChristianScience when other means have failed. One other oc- [25]casion which may call for aid unsought, is a case fromaccident, when there is no time for ceremony and no otheraid is near.

If the friends of a patient desire you to treat him with-

out his knowing it, and they believe in the efficacy of

Mind-healing, it is sometimes wise to do so, and the end

justifies the means; for he is restored through Christian

Science when other means have failed. One other oc- [25]

casion which may call for aid unsought, is a case from

accident, when there is no time for ceremony and no other

aid is near.

The abuse which I call attention to, is promiscuous

and unannounced mental practice where there is no neces- [1]sity for it, or the motive is mercenary, or one can to ad-vantage speak the truth audibly; then the case is notexceptional. As a rule, one has no more right to enterthe mind of a person, stir, upset, and adjust his thoughts [5]without his knowledge or consent, than one has to entera house, unlock the desk, displace the furniture, and suitone's self in the arrangement and management of anotherman's property.

and unannounced mental practice where there is no neces- [1]

sity for it, or the motive is mercenary, or one can to ad-

vantage speak the truth audibly; then the case is not

exceptional. As a rule, one has no more right to enter

the mind of a person, stir, upset, and adjust his thoughts [5]

without his knowledge or consent, than one has to enter

a house, unlock the desk, displace the furniture, and suit

one's self in the arrangement and management of another

man's property.

It would be right to break into a burning building and [10]rouse the slumbering inmates, but wrong to burst opendoors and break through windows if no emergency de-manded this. Any exception to the old wholesome rule,“Mind your own business,”is rare. For a student ofmine to treat another student without his knowledge, is [15]a breach of good manners and morals; it is nothing lessthan a mistaken kindness, a culpable ignorance, or aconscious trespass on the rights of mortals.

It would be right to break into a burning building and [10]

rouse the slumbering inmates, but wrong to burst open

doors and break through windows if no emergency de-

manded this. Any exception to the old wholesome rule,

“Mind your own business,”is rare. For a student of

mine to treat another student without his knowledge, is [15]

a breach of good manners and morals; it is nothing less

than a mistaken kindness, a culpable ignorance, or a

conscious trespass on the rights of mortals.

I insist on the etiquette of Christian Science, as wellas its morals and Christianity. The Scriptural rule of [20]this Science may momentarily be forgotten; but this isseldom the case with loyal students, or done withoutincriminating the person who did it.

I insist on the etiquette of Christian Science, as well

as its morals and Christianity. The Scriptural rule of [20]

this Science may momentarily be forgotten; but this is

seldom the case with loyal students, or done without

incriminating the person who did it.

Each student should, must, work out his own problemof being; conscious, meanwhile, that God worketh with [25]him, and that he needs no personal aid. It is the geniusof Christian Science to demonstrate good, not evil,—harmony, not discord; for Science is the mandate ofTruth which destroys all error.

Each student should, must, work out his own problem

of being; conscious, meanwhile, that God worketh with [25]

him, and that he needs no personal aid. It is the genius

of Christian Science to demonstrate good, not evil,—

harmony, not discord; for Science is the mandate of

Truth which destroys all error.

Whoever is honestly laboring to learn the principle of [30]music and practise it, seldom calls on his teacher or mu-sician to practise for him. The only personal help re-

Whoever is honestly laboring to learn the principle of [30]

music and practise it, seldom calls on his teacher or mu-

sician to practise for him. The only personal help re-

quired in this Science is for each one to do his own work [1]well, and never try to hinder others from doing theirsthus.

quired in this Science is for each one to do his own work [1]

well, and never try to hinder others from doing theirs

thus.

Christian Science, more than any other system ofreligion, morals, or medicine, is subject to abuses. Its [5]infinite nature and uses occasion this. Even the human-itarian at work in this field of limitless power and goodmay possess a zeal without knowledge, and thus mistakethe sphere of his present usefulness.

Christian Science, more than any other system of

religion, morals, or medicine, is subject to abuses. Its [5]

infinite nature and uses occasion this. Even the human-

itarian at work in this field of limitless power and good

may possess a zeal without knowledge, and thus mistake

the sphere of his present usefulness.

Students who strictly adhere to the right, and make the [10]Bible and Science and Health a study, are in no dangerof mistaking their way.

Students who strictly adhere to the right, and make the [10]

Bible and Science and Health a study, are in no danger

of mistaking their way.

This question is often proposed, How shall I treatmalicious animal magnetism? The hour has passed forthis evil to be treated personally, but it should have been [15]so dealt with at the outset. Christian Scientists shouldhave gone personally to the malpractitioner and toldhim his fault, and vindicated divine Truth and Loveagainst human error and hate. This growing sin mustnow be dealt with as evil, and not as an evil-doer or per- [20]sonality It must also be remembered that neither an evilclaim nor an evil person isreal, hence is neither to befearednor honored.

This question is often proposed, How shall I treat

malicious animal magnetism? The hour has passed for

this evil to be treated personally, but it should have been [15]

so dealt with at the outset. Christian Scientists should

have gone personally to the malpractitioner and told

him his fault, and vindicated divine Truth and Love

against human error and hate. This growing sin must

now be dealt with as evil, and not as an evil-doer or per- [20]

sonality It must also be remembered that neither an evil

claim nor an evil person isreal, hence is neither to be

fearednor honored.

Evil is not something to fear and flee before, or thatbecomes more real when it is grappled with. Evil let [25]alone grows more real, aggressive, and enlarges its claims;but, met with Science, it can and will be mastered byScience.

Evil is not something to fear and flee before, or that

becomes more real when it is grappled with. Evil let [25]

alone grows more real, aggressive, and enlarges its claims;

but, met with Science, it can and will be mastered by

Science.

I deprecate personal animosities and quarrels. But ifone is intrusted with the rules of church government, to [30]fulfil that trust those rules must be carried out; thus itis with all moral obligations. I am opposed to all personal

I deprecate personal animosities and quarrels. But if

one is intrusted with the rules of church government, to [30]

fulfil that trust those rules must be carried out; thus it

is with all moral obligations. I am opposed to all personal

attacks, and in favor of combating evil only, rather than [1]person.

attacks, and in favor of combating evil only, rather than [1]

person.

An edition of one thousand pamphlets I ordered tobe laid away and not one of them circulated, because Ihad been personal in condemnation. Afterwards, by a [5]blunder of the gentleman who fills orders for my books,some of these pamphlets were mistaken for the correctededition, and sold.

An edition of one thousand pamphlets I ordered to

be laid away and not one of them circulated, because I

had been personal in condemnation. Afterwards, by a [5]

blunder of the gentleman who fills orders for my books,

some of these pamphlets were mistaken for the corrected

edition, and sold.

Love is the fulfilling of the law. Human life is tooshort for foibles or failures.The Christian Science Jour-[10]nalwill hold high the banner of Truth and Love, and beimpartial and impersonal in its tenor and tenets.

Love is the fulfilling of the law. Human life is too

short for foibles or failures.The Christian Science Jour-[10]

nalwill hold high the banner of Truth and Love, and be

impartial and impersonal in its tenor and tenets.

WedlockIt was about the year 1875 that Science and Healthfirst crossed swords with free-love, and the latter fellhors[15]de combat; but the whole warfare of sensuality was notthen ended. Science and Health, the book that cast thefirst stone, is still at work, deep down in human conscious-ness, laying the axe at the root of error.We have taken the precaution to write briefly on mar- [20]riage, showing its relation to Christian Science. In thepresent or future, some extra throe of error may conjureup a new-style conjugality, which,ad libitum, severs themarriage covenant, puts virtue in the shambles, andcoolly notifies the public of broken vows. Springing [25]up from the ashes of free-love, this nondescript phoenix,in the face and eyes of common law, common sense, andcommon honesty, may appear in therôleof a superfineconjugality; but, having no Truth, it will have no past,present, or future. [30][pg 286]The above prophecy, written years ago, has already [1]been fulfilled. It is seen in Christian Science that thegospel of marriage is not without the law, and the solemnvow of fidelity,“until death do us part;”this verity inhuman economy can neither be obscured nor throttled. [5]Until time matures human growth, marriage and progenywill continue unprohibited in Christian Science. We lookto future generations for ability to comply with absoluteScience, when marriage shall be found to be man's one-ness with God,—the unity of eternal Love. At present, [10]more spiritual conception and education of children willserve to illustrate the superiority of spiritual power oversensuous, and usher in the dawn of God's creation,wherein they neither marry nor are given in marriage,but are as the angels. To abolish marriage at this period, [15]and maintain morality and generation, would put inge-nuity to ludicrous shifts; yet this is possible inScience,although it is to-day problematic.The time cometh, and now is, for spiritual and eternalexistence to be recognized and understood in Science. [20]All is Mind. Human procreation, birth, life, and deathare subjective states of the human erring mind; theyare the phenomena of mortality, nothingness, that illus-trate mortal mind and body asone, and neither real noreternal. [25]It should be understood that Spirit, God, is the onlycreator: we should recognize this verity of being, andshut out all sense of other claims. Until this absoluteScience of being is seen, understood, and demonstratedin the offspring of divine Mind, and man is perfect even [30]as the Father is perfect, human speculation will go on,and stop at length at the spiritual ultimate: creation[pg 287]understood as the most exalted divine conception. The [1]offspring of an improved generation, however, will go outbefore the forever fact that man is eternal and has nohuman origin. Hence the Scripture:“It is He that hathmade us, and not we ourselves;”and the Master's de- [5]mand,“Call no man your father upon the earth: for oneis your Father, which is in heaven.”To an ill-attuned ear, discord is harmony; so personalsense, discerning not the legitimate affection of Soul,may place love on a false basis and thereby lose it. Science [10]corrects this error with the truth of Love, and restoreslost Eden. Soul is the infinite source of bliss: only highand holy joy can satisfy immortal cravings. The goodin human affections should preponderate over the evil,and the spiritual over the animal,—until progress lifts [15]mortals to discern the Science of mental formation andfind the highway of holiness.In the order of wisdom, the higher nature of mangoverns the lower. This lays the foundations of humanaffection in line with progress, giving them strength and [20]permanence.When asked by a wife or a husband important ques-tions concerning their happiness, the substance of my replyis: God will guide you. Be faithful over home rela-tions; they lead to higher joys: obey the Golden Rule [25]for human life, and it will spare you much bitterness.It is pleasanter to do right than wrong; it makes oneruler over one's self and hallows home,—which is woman'sworld. Please your husband, and he will be apt to pleaseyou; preserve affection on both sides. [30]Great mischief comes from attempts to steady otherpeople's altars, venturing on valor without discretion,[pg 288]which is virtually meddlesomeness. Even your sincere [1]and courageous convictions regarding what is best forothers may be mistaken; you must be demonstrativelyright yourself, and work out the greatest good to thegreatest number, before you are sure of being a fit coun- [5]sellor. Positive and imperative thoughts should be droppedinto the balances of God and weighed by spiritual Love,and not be found wanting, before being put into action.A rash conclusion that regards only one side of a ques-tion, is weak and wicked; this error works out the results [10]of error. If the premise of mortal existence is wrong,any conclusion drawn therefrom is not absolutely right.Wisdom in human action begins with what is nearestright under the circumstances, and thence achieves theabsolute. [15]Is marriage nearer right than celibacy?Human knowledge inculcates that it is, while Scienceindicates that itis not. But to force the consciousnessof scientific being before it is understood is impossible,and believing otherwise would prevent scientific demon- [20]stration. To reckon the universal cost and gain, as wellas thine own, is right in every state and stage of being.The selfishrôleof a martyr is the shift of a dishonestmind, nothing short of self-seeking; and real sufferingwould stop the farce. [25]The cause of temperance receives a strong impulsefrom the cause of Christian Science: temperance andtruth are allies, and their cause prospers in proportionto the spirit of Love that nerves the struggle. Peoplewill differ in their opinions as to means to promote the [30]ends of temperance; that is, abstinence from intoxicat-ing beverages. Whatever intoxicates a man, stultifies,[pg 289]and causes him to degenerate physically and morally. [1]Strong drink is unquestionably an evil, and evil cannotbe used temperately: its slightest use is abuse; hencethe only temperance is total abstinence. Drunkennessis sensuality let loose, in whatever form it is made [5]manifest.What is evil? It is suppositional absence of good.From a human standpoint of good, mortals must firstchoose between evils, and of two evils choose the less;and at present the application of scientific rules to hu- [10]man life seems to rest on this basis.All partnerships are formed on agreements to certaincompacts: each party voluntarily surrenders independ-ent action to act as a whole and per agreement. Thisfact should be duly considered when by the marriage [15]contract two are made one, and, according to the divineprecept,“they twain shall be one flesh.”Oneness inspirit is Science, compatible with home and heaven.Neither divine justice nor human equity hasdivorcedtwo minds in one. [20]Rights that are bargained away must not be retakenby the contractors, except by mutual consent. Humannature has bestowed on a wife the right to become amother; but if the wife esteems not this privilege, bymutual consent, exalted and increased affections, she [25]may win a higher. Science touches the conjugal ques-tion on the basis of a bill of rights. Can the bill of con-jugal rights be fairly stated by a magistrate, or by aminister? Mutual interests and affections are the spiritof these rights, and they should be consulted, augmented, [30]and allowed to rise to the spiritual altitude whence theycan choose only good.[pg 290]A third person is not a party to the compact of two [1]hearts. Let other people's marriage relationsalone: twopersons only, should be found within their precincts.The nuptial vow is never annulled so long as the animusof the contract is preserved intact. Science lifts humanity [5]higher in the scale of harmony, and must ultimately breakall bonds that hinder progress.

It was about the year 1875 that Science and Healthfirst crossed swords with free-love, and the latter fellhors[15]de combat; but the whole warfare of sensuality was notthen ended. Science and Health, the book that cast thefirst stone, is still at work, deep down in human conscious-ness, laying the axe at the root of error.

It was about the year 1875 that Science and Health

first crossed swords with free-love, and the latter fellhors[15]

de combat; but the whole warfare of sensuality was not

then ended. Science and Health, the book that cast the

first stone, is still at work, deep down in human conscious-

ness, laying the axe at the root of error.

We have taken the precaution to write briefly on mar- [20]riage, showing its relation to Christian Science. In thepresent or future, some extra throe of error may conjureup a new-style conjugality, which,ad libitum, severs themarriage covenant, puts virtue in the shambles, andcoolly notifies the public of broken vows. Springing [25]up from the ashes of free-love, this nondescript phoenix,in the face and eyes of common law, common sense, andcommon honesty, may appear in therôleof a superfineconjugality; but, having no Truth, it will have no past,present, or future. [30]

We have taken the precaution to write briefly on mar- [20]

riage, showing its relation to Christian Science. In the

present or future, some extra throe of error may conjure

up a new-style conjugality, which,ad libitum, severs the

marriage covenant, puts virtue in the shambles, and

coolly notifies the public of broken vows. Springing [25]

up from the ashes of free-love, this nondescript phoenix,

in the face and eyes of common law, common sense, and

common honesty, may appear in therôleof a superfine

conjugality; but, having no Truth, it will have no past,

present, or future. [30]

The above prophecy, written years ago, has already [1]been fulfilled. It is seen in Christian Science that thegospel of marriage is not without the law, and the solemnvow of fidelity,“until death do us part;”this verity inhuman economy can neither be obscured nor throttled. [5]Until time matures human growth, marriage and progenywill continue unprohibited in Christian Science. We lookto future generations for ability to comply with absoluteScience, when marriage shall be found to be man's one-ness with God,—the unity of eternal Love. At present, [10]more spiritual conception and education of children willserve to illustrate the superiority of spiritual power oversensuous, and usher in the dawn of God's creation,wherein they neither marry nor are given in marriage,but are as the angels. To abolish marriage at this period, [15]and maintain morality and generation, would put inge-nuity to ludicrous shifts; yet this is possible inScience,although it is to-day problematic.

The above prophecy, written years ago, has already [1]

been fulfilled. It is seen in Christian Science that the

gospel of marriage is not without the law, and the solemn

vow of fidelity,“until death do us part;”this verity in

human economy can neither be obscured nor throttled. [5]

Until time matures human growth, marriage and progeny

will continue unprohibited in Christian Science. We look

to future generations for ability to comply with absolute

Science, when marriage shall be found to be man's one-

ness with God,—the unity of eternal Love. At present, [10]

more spiritual conception and education of children will

serve to illustrate the superiority of spiritual power over

sensuous, and usher in the dawn of God's creation,

wherein they neither marry nor are given in marriage,

but are as the angels. To abolish marriage at this period, [15]

and maintain morality and generation, would put inge-

nuity to ludicrous shifts; yet this is possible inScience,

although it is to-day problematic.

The time cometh, and now is, for spiritual and eternalexistence to be recognized and understood in Science. [20]All is Mind. Human procreation, birth, life, and deathare subjective states of the human erring mind; theyare the phenomena of mortality, nothingness, that illus-trate mortal mind and body asone, and neither real noreternal. [25]

The time cometh, and now is, for spiritual and eternal

existence to be recognized and understood in Science. [20]

All is Mind. Human procreation, birth, life, and death

are subjective states of the human erring mind; they

are the phenomena of mortality, nothingness, that illus-

trate mortal mind and body asone, and neither real nor

eternal. [25]

It should be understood that Spirit, God, is the onlycreator: we should recognize this verity of being, andshut out all sense of other claims. Until this absoluteScience of being is seen, understood, and demonstratedin the offspring of divine Mind, and man is perfect even [30]as the Father is perfect, human speculation will go on,and stop at length at the spiritual ultimate: creation

It should be understood that Spirit, God, is the only

creator: we should recognize this verity of being, and

shut out all sense of other claims. Until this absolute

Science of being is seen, understood, and demonstrated

in the offspring of divine Mind, and man is perfect even [30]

as the Father is perfect, human speculation will go on,

and stop at length at the spiritual ultimate: creation

understood as the most exalted divine conception. The [1]offspring of an improved generation, however, will go outbefore the forever fact that man is eternal and has nohuman origin. Hence the Scripture:“It is He that hathmade us, and not we ourselves;”and the Master's de- [5]mand,“Call no man your father upon the earth: for oneis your Father, which is in heaven.”

understood as the most exalted divine conception. The [1]

offspring of an improved generation, however, will go out

before the forever fact that man is eternal and has no

human origin. Hence the Scripture:“It is He that hath

made us, and not we ourselves;”and the Master's de- [5]

mand,“Call no man your father upon the earth: for one

is your Father, which is in heaven.”

To an ill-attuned ear, discord is harmony; so personalsense, discerning not the legitimate affection of Soul,may place love on a false basis and thereby lose it. Science [10]corrects this error with the truth of Love, and restoreslost Eden. Soul is the infinite source of bliss: only highand holy joy can satisfy immortal cravings. The goodin human affections should preponderate over the evil,and the spiritual over the animal,—until progress lifts [15]mortals to discern the Science of mental formation andfind the highway of holiness.

To an ill-attuned ear, discord is harmony; so personal

sense, discerning not the legitimate affection of Soul,

may place love on a false basis and thereby lose it. Science [10]

corrects this error with the truth of Love, and restores

lost Eden. Soul is the infinite source of bliss: only high

and holy joy can satisfy immortal cravings. The good

in human affections should preponderate over the evil,

and the spiritual over the animal,—until progress lifts [15]

mortals to discern the Science of mental formation and

find the highway of holiness.

In the order of wisdom, the higher nature of mangoverns the lower. This lays the foundations of humanaffection in line with progress, giving them strength and [20]permanence.

In the order of wisdom, the higher nature of man

governs the lower. This lays the foundations of human

affection in line with progress, giving them strength and [20]

permanence.

When asked by a wife or a husband important ques-tions concerning their happiness, the substance of my replyis: God will guide you. Be faithful over home rela-tions; they lead to higher joys: obey the Golden Rule [25]for human life, and it will spare you much bitterness.It is pleasanter to do right than wrong; it makes oneruler over one's self and hallows home,—which is woman'sworld. Please your husband, and he will be apt to pleaseyou; preserve affection on both sides. [30]

When asked by a wife or a husband important ques-

tions concerning their happiness, the substance of my reply

is: God will guide you. Be faithful over home rela-

tions; they lead to higher joys: obey the Golden Rule [25]

for human life, and it will spare you much bitterness.

It is pleasanter to do right than wrong; it makes one

ruler over one's self and hallows home,—which is woman's

world. Please your husband, and he will be apt to please

you; preserve affection on both sides. [30]

Great mischief comes from attempts to steady otherpeople's altars, venturing on valor without discretion,

Great mischief comes from attempts to steady other

people's altars, venturing on valor without discretion,

which is virtually meddlesomeness. Even your sincere [1]and courageous convictions regarding what is best forothers may be mistaken; you must be demonstrativelyright yourself, and work out the greatest good to thegreatest number, before you are sure of being a fit coun- [5]sellor. Positive and imperative thoughts should be droppedinto the balances of God and weighed by spiritual Love,and not be found wanting, before being put into action.A rash conclusion that regards only one side of a ques-tion, is weak and wicked; this error works out the results [10]of error. If the premise of mortal existence is wrong,any conclusion drawn therefrom is not absolutely right.Wisdom in human action begins with what is nearestright under the circumstances, and thence achieves theabsolute. [15]

which is virtually meddlesomeness. Even your sincere [1]

and courageous convictions regarding what is best for

others may be mistaken; you must be demonstratively

right yourself, and work out the greatest good to the

greatest number, before you are sure of being a fit coun- [5]

sellor. Positive and imperative thoughts should be dropped

into the balances of God and weighed by spiritual Love,

and not be found wanting, before being put into action.

A rash conclusion that regards only one side of a ques-

tion, is weak and wicked; this error works out the results [10]

of error. If the premise of mortal existence is wrong,

any conclusion drawn therefrom is not absolutely right.

Wisdom in human action begins with what is nearest

right under the circumstances, and thence achieves the

absolute. [15]

Is marriage nearer right than celibacy?

Human knowledge inculcates that it is, while Scienceindicates that itis not. But to force the consciousnessof scientific being before it is understood is impossible,and believing otherwise would prevent scientific demon- [20]stration. To reckon the universal cost and gain, as wellas thine own, is right in every state and stage of being.The selfishrôleof a martyr is the shift of a dishonestmind, nothing short of self-seeking; and real sufferingwould stop the farce. [25]

Human knowledge inculcates that it is, while Science

indicates that itis not. But to force the consciousness

of scientific being before it is understood is impossible,

and believing otherwise would prevent scientific demon- [20]

stration. To reckon the universal cost and gain, as well

as thine own, is right in every state and stage of being.

The selfishrôleof a martyr is the shift of a dishonest

mind, nothing short of self-seeking; and real suffering

would stop the farce. [25]

The cause of temperance receives a strong impulsefrom the cause of Christian Science: temperance andtruth are allies, and their cause prospers in proportionto the spirit of Love that nerves the struggle. Peoplewill differ in their opinions as to means to promote the [30]ends of temperance; that is, abstinence from intoxicat-ing beverages. Whatever intoxicates a man, stultifies,

The cause of temperance receives a strong impulse

from the cause of Christian Science: temperance and

truth are allies, and their cause prospers in proportion

to the spirit of Love that nerves the struggle. People

will differ in their opinions as to means to promote the [30]

ends of temperance; that is, abstinence from intoxicat-

ing beverages. Whatever intoxicates a man, stultifies,

and causes him to degenerate physically and morally. [1]Strong drink is unquestionably an evil, and evil cannotbe used temperately: its slightest use is abuse; hencethe only temperance is total abstinence. Drunkennessis sensuality let loose, in whatever form it is made [5]manifest.

and causes him to degenerate physically and morally. [1]

Strong drink is unquestionably an evil, and evil cannot

be used temperately: its slightest use is abuse; hence

the only temperance is total abstinence. Drunkenness

is sensuality let loose, in whatever form it is made [5]

manifest.

What is evil? It is suppositional absence of good.From a human standpoint of good, mortals must firstchoose between evils, and of two evils choose the less;and at present the application of scientific rules to hu- [10]man life seems to rest on this basis.

What is evil? It is suppositional absence of good.

From a human standpoint of good, mortals must first

choose between evils, and of two evils choose the less;

and at present the application of scientific rules to hu- [10]

man life seems to rest on this basis.

All partnerships are formed on agreements to certaincompacts: each party voluntarily surrenders independ-ent action to act as a whole and per agreement. Thisfact should be duly considered when by the marriage [15]contract two are made one, and, according to the divineprecept,“they twain shall be one flesh.”Oneness inspirit is Science, compatible with home and heaven.Neither divine justice nor human equity hasdivorcedtwo minds in one. [20]

All partnerships are formed on agreements to certain

compacts: each party voluntarily surrenders independ-

ent action to act as a whole and per agreement. This

fact should be duly considered when by the marriage [15]

contract two are made one, and, according to the divine

precept,“they twain shall be one flesh.”Oneness in

spirit is Science, compatible with home and heaven.

Neither divine justice nor human equity hasdivorced

two minds in one. [20]

Rights that are bargained away must not be retakenby the contractors, except by mutual consent. Humannature has bestowed on a wife the right to become amother; but if the wife esteems not this privilege, bymutual consent, exalted and increased affections, she [25]may win a higher. Science touches the conjugal ques-tion on the basis of a bill of rights. Can the bill of con-jugal rights be fairly stated by a magistrate, or by aminister? Mutual interests and affections are the spiritof these rights, and they should be consulted, augmented, [30]and allowed to rise to the spiritual altitude whence theycan choose only good.

Rights that are bargained away must not be retaken

by the contractors, except by mutual consent. Human

nature has bestowed on a wife the right to become a

mother; but if the wife esteems not this privilege, by

mutual consent, exalted and increased affections, she [25]

may win a higher. Science touches the conjugal ques-

tion on the basis of a bill of rights. Can the bill of con-

jugal rights be fairly stated by a magistrate, or by a

minister? Mutual interests and affections are the spirit

of these rights, and they should be consulted, augmented, [30]

and allowed to rise to the spiritual altitude whence they

can choose only good.

A third person is not a party to the compact of two [1]hearts. Let other people's marriage relationsalone: twopersons only, should be found within their precincts.The nuptial vow is never annulled so long as the animusof the contract is preserved intact. Science lifts humanity [5]higher in the scale of harmony, and must ultimately breakall bonds that hinder progress.

A third person is not a party to the compact of two [1]

hearts. Let other people's marriage relationsalone: two

persons only, should be found within their precincts.

The nuptial vow is never annulled so long as the animus

of the contract is preserved intact. Science lifts humanity [5]

higher in the scale of harmony, and must ultimately break

all bonds that hinder progress.

Judge NotMistaken views ought to be dissolving views, sincewhatever is false should disappear. To suppose that hu- [10]man love, guided by the divine Principle, which is Love,is partial, unmerciful, or unjust, indicates misapprehen-sion of the divine Principle and its workings in the humanheart.A person wrote to me, naming the time of the occur- [15]rence,“I felt the influence of your thought on my mind,and it produced a wonderful illumination, peace, andunderstanding;”but, I had not thought of the writerat that time. I knew that this person was doing well,and my affections involuntarily flow out towards all. [20]When will the world cease to judge of causes from apersonal sense of things, conjectural and misapprehen-sive! When thought dwells in God,—and it should not,to our consciousness, dwell elsewhere,—one must bene-fit those who hold a place in one's memory, whether it [25]be friend or foe, and each share the benefit of that radia-tion. This individual blessedness and blessing comesnot so much from individual as from universal love: itemits light because it reflects; and all who are receptiveshare this equally. [30][pg 291]Mistaken or transient views are human: they are not [1]governed by the Principle of divine Science: but thenotion that a mind governed by Principle can be forcedinto personal channels, affinities, self-interests, or obliga-tions, is a grave mistake; it dims the true sense of God's [5]reflection, and darkens the understanding that demon-strates above personal motives, unworthy aims andambitions.Too much and too little is attached to me as authorityfor other people's thoughts and actions. A tacit acqui- [10]escence with others' views is often construed as directorders,—or at least it so appears in results. I desirethe equal growth and prosperity of all Christian Scien-tists, and the world in general; each and every one hasequal opportunity to be benefited by my thoughts and [15]writings. If any are not partakers thereof, this is notmy fault, and is far from my desire; the possible per-version of Christian Science is the irony of fate, if thespirit thereof be lacking. I would part with a blessingmyself to bestow it upon others, but could not deprive [20]them of it. False views, however engendered, relativeto the true and unswerving course of a Christian Scientist,will at length dissolve into thin air. The dew of heavenwill fall gently on the hearts and lives of all who are foundworthy to suffer for righteousness,—and have taught [25]the truth which is energizing, refreshing, and consecrat-ing mankind.To station justice and gratitude as sentinels along thelines of thought, would aid the solution of this problem,and counteract the influence of envious minds or the mis- [30]guided individual who keeps not watch over his emotionsand conclusions.[pg 292]

Mistaken views ought to be dissolving views, sincewhatever is false should disappear. To suppose that hu- [10]man love, guided by the divine Principle, which is Love,is partial, unmerciful, or unjust, indicates misapprehen-sion of the divine Principle and its workings in the humanheart.

Mistaken views ought to be dissolving views, since

whatever is false should disappear. To suppose that hu- [10]

man love, guided by the divine Principle, which is Love,

is partial, unmerciful, or unjust, indicates misapprehen-

sion of the divine Principle and its workings in the human

heart.

A person wrote to me, naming the time of the occur- [15]rence,“I felt the influence of your thought on my mind,and it produced a wonderful illumination, peace, andunderstanding;”but, I had not thought of the writerat that time. I knew that this person was doing well,and my affections involuntarily flow out towards all. [20]

A person wrote to me, naming the time of the occur- [15]

rence,“I felt the influence of your thought on my mind,

and it produced a wonderful illumination, peace, and

understanding;”but, I had not thought of the writer

at that time. I knew that this person was doing well,

and my affections involuntarily flow out towards all. [20]

When will the world cease to judge of causes from apersonal sense of things, conjectural and misapprehen-sive! When thought dwells in God,—and it should not,to our consciousness, dwell elsewhere,—one must bene-fit those who hold a place in one's memory, whether it [25]be friend or foe, and each share the benefit of that radia-tion. This individual blessedness and blessing comesnot so much from individual as from universal love: itemits light because it reflects; and all who are receptiveshare this equally. [30]

When will the world cease to judge of causes from a

personal sense of things, conjectural and misapprehen-

sive! When thought dwells in God,—and it should not,

to our consciousness, dwell elsewhere,—one must bene-

fit those who hold a place in one's memory, whether it [25]

be friend or foe, and each share the benefit of that radia-

tion. This individual blessedness and blessing comes

not so much from individual as from universal love: it

emits light because it reflects; and all who are receptive

share this equally. [30]

Mistaken or transient views are human: they are not [1]governed by the Principle of divine Science: but thenotion that a mind governed by Principle can be forcedinto personal channels, affinities, self-interests, or obliga-tions, is a grave mistake; it dims the true sense of God's [5]reflection, and darkens the understanding that demon-strates above personal motives, unworthy aims andambitions.

Mistaken or transient views are human: they are not [1]

governed by the Principle of divine Science: but the

notion that a mind governed by Principle can be forced

into personal channels, affinities, self-interests, or obliga-

tions, is a grave mistake; it dims the true sense of God's [5]

reflection, and darkens the understanding that demon-

strates above personal motives, unworthy aims and

ambitions.

Too much and too little is attached to me as authorityfor other people's thoughts and actions. A tacit acqui- [10]escence with others' views is often construed as directorders,—or at least it so appears in results. I desirethe equal growth and prosperity of all Christian Scien-tists, and the world in general; each and every one hasequal opportunity to be benefited by my thoughts and [15]writings. If any are not partakers thereof, this is notmy fault, and is far from my desire; the possible per-version of Christian Science is the irony of fate, if thespirit thereof be lacking. I would part with a blessingmyself to bestow it upon others, but could not deprive [20]them of it. False views, however engendered, relativeto the true and unswerving course of a Christian Scientist,will at length dissolve into thin air. The dew of heavenwill fall gently on the hearts and lives of all who are foundworthy to suffer for righteousness,—and have taught [25]the truth which is energizing, refreshing, and consecrat-ing mankind.

Too much and too little is attached to me as authority

for other people's thoughts and actions. A tacit acqui- [10]

escence with others' views is often construed as direct

orders,—or at least it so appears in results. I desire

the equal growth and prosperity of all Christian Scien-

tists, and the world in general; each and every one has

equal opportunity to be benefited by my thoughts and [15]

writings. If any are not partakers thereof, this is not

my fault, and is far from my desire; the possible per-

version of Christian Science is the irony of fate, if the

spirit thereof be lacking. I would part with a blessing

myself to bestow it upon others, but could not deprive [20]

them of it. False views, however engendered, relative

to the true and unswerving course of a Christian Scientist,

will at length dissolve into thin air. The dew of heaven

will fall gently on the hearts and lives of all who are found

worthy to suffer for righteousness,—and have taught [25]

the truth which is energizing, refreshing, and consecrat-

ing mankind.

To station justice and gratitude as sentinels along thelines of thought, would aid the solution of this problem,and counteract the influence of envious minds or the mis- [30]guided individual who keeps not watch over his emotionsand conclusions.

To station justice and gratitude as sentinels along the

lines of thought, would aid the solution of this problem,

and counteract the influence of envious minds or the mis- [30]

guided individual who keeps not watch over his emotions

and conclusions.

Back to Index Next