Article November 28, 1983 Issue

Are we reacting or responding?

WINDING COPLEY IVEY

At one time or another we've all reacted to someone or something. Perhaps someone has criticized us when we had only the best intentions. Maybe we made a special effort to be thoughtful, and it went unnoticed. Or could it be that a shortcoming was called to our attention—even in a gentle and considerate manner—but we didn't want to face up to it?

Reaction takes many forms; it ranges from mild annoyance to full-scaled anger. But Christian Science teaches that reaction, even in a small degree, is not legitimate. Reaction provides a breeding ground for hatred and bitterness, fostering elements of thought that have a devastating effect if accepted. "The Christian Scientist cherishes no resentment; he knows that that would harm him more than all the malice of his foes,"^{Message to The Mother Church for 1902, p. 19.} writes Mrs. Eddy.

If reaction is not the Christianly scientific answer, then what is? Spiritual response.

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