Article July 27, 1912 Issue

REPRESSION

KATE WARDWELL BUCK

Repression dwarfs and warps the sunniest nature, interferes with one's freedom of thought and action, and though on the surface of things its victim may appear quite natural, in his heart of hearts he knows that he is very far from living up to his capabilities, and this in itself is a thought that stings. He has an uncomfortable feeling of limitation, as if dragging at his heels a ball and chain. Not realizing the cause, he seeks honestly, patiently, and persistently for freedom, in the best way he knows; but with small success, it needs must be, until the condition of repression is pointed out to him and the realization of its evil influence made plain.

Mrs. Eddy says: "Know thyself, and God will supply the wisdom and the occasion for a victory over evil" (Science and Health, p. 571). To fulfil this admonition will be to overcome many a troublous situation. If any are repressing forgiveness, let them know it and forgive, however great may seem the injury done them, else how can they say, "Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors"? Surely the peace that passeth understanding, that "pearl of great price," cannot come to such a consciousness, however hungry for it. If any are repressing truth, let them speak fearlessly "to whom it may concern," knowing, rejoicing in, and using the power that in them lies. If any are repressing love, let them set free the imprisoned thing—give it wings, that its mission may be accomplished.

The list might be greatly enlarged, but each individual knows best what special good impulse he is at present stifling, and the recognition of the poor, crushed, half-smothered thing, the determination to set it free, allow it to do the work for which it has perhaps so long been struggling,—this will certainly bring a sense of relief and freedom which only those who have put the rule to the test can know. Mental freedom first; then, as a natural consequence, the physical. Many people are busying themselves in gathering together a handful of thorns to sit upon, and he who permits the repression of what are commonly called good impulses, however much he may be in the minority in his longing to yield to them, is indeed gathering thorns that will tear and pierce him at every turn, till he recognizes the bush upon which they grew and destroys both it and them.

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