Editorial February 27, 1909 Issue

TRUTH NOT SELF THE STANDARD

ANNIE M. KNOTT

As Christian Scientists we cannot too often remind ourselves of the high and holy standard set for us in the teachings of our text-book,—viz., the perfect idea of perfect Mind. The habit of measuring ourselves or others by a mortal concept as to what man should be, tends to self-satisfaction on the one hand or to self-condemnation on the other. Those who indulge in self-satisfaction are apt to measure themselves and their achievements by a low standard, by some one or some work which they consider far below their own attainments, and they are apt to be rudely awakened from their pleasing dream when they discover that their work does not even come up to the popular demand. Many go through the years of mortal experience wondering why they are not more successful, when Mr. So-and-so, who is no better in any way, is forging to the front.

This attitude really explains the whole situation—the failure to make satisfactory progress. The grumbler—and he is more numerous than he should be—lets thought range only in the narrow limits of personal sense. He sees others through the lens of material belief, and decides that he is at least as good as they are—which may or may not be true. In any case this would be of no consequence, as an imperfect mortal never constitutes a standard by which a correct judgment can be formed. As the risen Master said to Peter, at that wonderful breakfast on the seashore, "What is that to thee? follow thou me."

The one who accepts no other standard than the Christly one of perfection will always be humble as he measures his thoughts, words, and deeds by it; but he will not be cast down, for with this standard ever before him he will make some progress each day, take a step in advance for which he will thank God and take courage. He will cease (if he has ever indulged it) the pernicious habit of measuring himself by others, and thus he will rise above the enervating vice of satisfaction with imperfect efforts and attainments in any of his activities.

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