Article July 31, 1909 Issue

HEROES

MATHER ALMON ABBOTT

Mrs. Eddy gave a pertinent truth fitting expression when she wrote, "There is too much animal courage in society and not sufficient moral courage" (Science and Health, p. 28). We are in the habit of associating the name hero with martial conflict. In our usual conception he is the man of war, one who in the face of mortal fear does some noble action—leads a forlorn hope perchance, saves a comrade from death, or wins a splendid victory. The world always bestows praise and honor upon physical courage and endurance. So satisfactory are and ever have been the rewards given by mortals to mere physical bravery, that a courageous action is made comparatively easy. In fact, it has been said by a soldier that it requires almost more courage to flee than to advance, so great is the fear of blame.

The praise of men and the desire to be thought well of by one's fellows are dear to every heart. The knowledge that such and such a deed will command a due meed of praise has ever been the chief incentive to courageous action. It was said in the South African war that so great was the desire on the part of the officers to win the Victoria cross that many brave men exposed their lives in running needless risks. Men will face death again and again, helped by the knowledge that their world will cry, "Well done!" And it is well that it should be so. Physical courage is a splendid quality, and shows a disregard for matter and mortal fear which is eminently praiseworthy. But what of moral courage? Does this spiritual bravery command the same meed of praise?

The action that is truly great the world of its day seldom applauds. The man who takes his stand daily—nay, hourly—for the cause of right, the world often maltreats and crucifies. No banners are waved for him. No trumpets sound. No honors are added to his name. Seldom is it that the moral hero attains recognition in his own age. Only after many years does the world realize what its real benefactors have done for it. Jesus said: "Woe unto you. scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye build the tombs of the prophets, and garnish the sepulchers of the righteous, and say, If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets. Wherefore be ye witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them which killed the prophets."

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