Editorial February 23, 1907 Issue

THE MENTAL STATE

Annie M. Knott

IT is very interesting to inquire into the reasons for the rapid and steady progress made by some pupils in their school days, as compared with that of others, and this inquiry may be pursued in the wider school of human experience. No one can deny that certain persons reach given results much more easily than do others, or that the same persons attain desired results more easily and quickly at certain times than at others. Christian Science is already doing wonders in giving its students clearer views than had before seemed possible, of the relation of cause and effect in every direction, and it will do much more for the enlightenment of mankind as it is better understood and more persistently applied. Every student of our text-book learns of the absolute impartiality of divine Principle, the absolute justice of divine Mind, which implies a "square deal" for every human being. The problem is how to bring to the human sense a clearer recognition of this basic truth, so that each may avail himself of it in overcoming the many disadvantages consequent upon ignorance of God and His law. The seeming difficulties are, however, greatly lessened when we remember that God is working in us "both to will and to do of his good pleasure," which is to do us good and only good. We, on our part, are required to "work out," to express this salvation which God is effecting in the depths of consciousness, at whatever expense of time and effort it may require, applying the truth to every problem of human experience, and knowing that perfection and nothing less is demanded as the ultimate of all endeavor.

If all knew how to be "co-workers" with God, failure or even delay would be impossible. If we are bringing out poor results in any of our work it only proves that our mental state is not what it should be, and this can and should be corrected at once. If we are reflecting the divine Mind we shall surpass the best that is attempted by the unaided mortal thought, for we shall express unlimited intelligence and strength.

A wonderful lesson to the toilers on earth's troubled sea is to be found in the Gospel accounts of the stilling of the storm by Christ Jesus and the hastening of the disciples' passage to the shore. On this perilous voyage the toil at the oars had counted for nothing, and when they saw Christ Jesus coming to them through the storm—walking on the water—they were terrified. When, however, they heard the words, "It is I; be not afraid," their fears and the sea were both calmed, and when they took the Master into the boat their goal was reached immediately.

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