Article November 13, 1926 Issue

Humility versus Aggression

MARIAN G. PAGE

The aggressiveness and self-assertion of the so-called carnal mind, as encountered in one's everyday contact with humanity, are difficult to cope with because of like qualities in one's own thought—human will and its counterpart, consent to domination, often the expediency of otherwise fine natures. Thus we see resentment rising up against what seems an encroachment. And fear is behind resentment—fear of some right invaded, or of the possible loss of something valued. Fear and ignorance of how to cope with the aggressiveness of the carnal or mortal mind are behind all conflict, from the first awakening of the babe to the possible loss of its treasured toy, which it sees held tightly in the fist of a small invader, to conflict and war between nations. Yet Jesus has shown, through his life and teachings, the way to heal all aggression. "The meek ... shall inherit the earth," he taught; and perhaps there is no quality that rises more spontaneously to our thought when we name the name of Christ than that of humility.

Through Christian Science we are led to ponder deeply the meaning of this wondrous quality, which in "Miscellaneous Writings" (p. 356) Mrs. Eddy has called "the genius of Christian Science," and to strive to bring it out in our lives. As step by step there is unfolded to us the divine Science that bases all of Jesus' acts and sayings, the secret to true dominion, exemplified by him in meekness and might, is revealed. The endeavor to take all of self out of any situation that confronts us, to eliminate all self-interest, self-love, self-will, and pride, is the means whereby our vision may be clarified and the way opened to let the light of divine Truth and Love uncover, heal, and adjust all things in accordance with God's law of perfect justice and harmony. Mrs. Eddy has written (ibid., p. 1), "Meekness heightens immortal attributes only by removing the dust that dims them." The willingness to relinquish human will and a personal claim to possession, because we know wherein lies all true substance—even in God—and understand its indestructibility and safety as that which proceeds from, abides with, and glorifies the Father, brings out in our experience the true power, peace, and dominion. This does not mean a surrender of Principle, but a stand with Principle.

Jesus' humility enabled him to see all things as they really are, and to "judge righteous judgment." In the tenth chapter of Luke an account is given of him as a guest in the home of Martha. Here we see the self-importance of Martha in her "much serving" rebuked by Jesus, and the quiet beauty of Mary's homage and love recognized and commended. It is the humility of the Christ that gives place and freedom to every idea, revealing its strength through the understanding of its connection with its source, the all-powerful divine Mind. Removing human will, prestige, and power, humility lets in the light of Truth and Love. As quietly and as gently as a sunbeam streams through an open shutter and gradually pervades the room, does God's presence pervade the consciousness clothed with humility. In the light and peace that follow, each idea finds its right place, is revealed as in its right place, bearing witness, as saith the Christ, not of "his own glory," but of "his glory that sent him."

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