Article October 3, 1903 Issue

A Business Man's Point of View

J. E. FELLERS

"Why do your congregations contain so many business men?" is a question often asked Christian Scientists. The answer is not difficult. In this busy age, when the lines of competition are so closely drawn, men of affairs are compelled to seek and hold fast to practical things. They are not looking for theories; they want facts. When they find a fact which pays a dividend either in money, health, or happiness, they are slow to give it up. The writing machine, the incandescent lamp, the cash register, the telephone, the elevator, and the telegraph are all practical things in the business world. Their value is measured by results, or "by their fruits." There is no other reasonable test. The business man who is wise could not be induced to discard these convenient labor-saving and time-saving articles, unless his reason was convinced that their place could be filled by something more practical.

In most instances, the business men who are found in Christian Science congregations, are those who have known suffering while trying to conduct business enterprises and at the same time combating physical ills with material remedies, experiencing the slow but steady approach of ill health, shattered nerves, and a faltering faith in God. In Christian Science they have found a religion that has given them health for disease, peace and satisfaction for nervousness, and a deep-toned understanding of God's presence and power. They have been convinced by actual experience and severe tests that Christian Science gives fact for theory, and they refuse to believe, very naturally, that a half-sick man is as competent in the management of business as one who is healthy and happy. They are so thoroughly satisfied with the results obtained from Christian Science that they have discarded old theories which have proven impractical for the up-to-date facts of this great religion. Having tested the efficacy of this wonderful truth, which in every-day life means so much to them, it is not strange that they should find among others who have had similar experiences a congenial and helpful atmosphere. They are drawn to the Christian Science service, therefore, as naturally as thirsty travelers to a fountain in a desert.

Large corporations recognize the fact that the man who is watchful and constant in whatever capacity employed, is preferable to one who is ill, indifferent, and vacillating. Managers of many large firms say that great loss is sustained each year by the sickness of employes. A young man who is expected to be at his post of duty promptly on a given morning, telephones the manager of his department that he is ill and is advised by his physician to remain at home that day. His place remains vacant, or, if filled, the substitute, not being acquainted with the position, fails to present articles in such manner as to effect satisfactory sales. The firm not only loses the profit on that particular salesman for the day, but in most cases it pays him for the time lost. For several days following, this salesman does his work poorly, and on account of this fact another loss creeps into the firm's business. Loss is also occasioned by many employes becoming disqualified for several days at a time in consequence of dissipation and imprudent practices.

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