Article October 31, 1914 Issue

One's Own Business

JOHN M. DEAN

Christian Science is teaching thousands of men and women that they can best be about their "Father's business" by minding their own business. A meddlesome busybody is far from manifesting the activity of divine Mind, and he who grapples with his own problems is sure to have his hands full. In "Miscellaneous Writings" Mrs. Eddy says, "The warfare with one's self is grand" (p. 118), and when we learn that self is the first enemy we have to conquer, we can concentrate the forces of good upon our problem until nothing is left for error to claim as its own.

The psalmist said, "Fret not thyself because of evil-doers," and Paul laid down the injunction, "Study to be quiet, and to do your own business." Things which in no wise touch our problem are no part of our business unless those interested ask for our help, in which case it becomes our business lovingly and compassionately to respond. We can surely afford to ignore everything which does not affect our individual problem, while scientifically correcting everything that does. The individuality of man gives each of us the right to demonstrate his own salvation, and it should not be forgotten that this right is equally the property of all. We all remember the fate of Uzzah, who presumptuously attempted to steady the ark and received quick punishment for his temerity; and in varying degree, punishment comes to every man who assumes to steady the ark for his neighbor.

"If" and "but" should be no part of the vocabulary of a Christian Scientist when speaking of a fellow man. How often have we heard some individual condemned by faint praise, as when some one says, "He (or she) would be all right, if—," or "He is a good man, but—." If our brother has his regrettable shortcomings, he cannot be helped by having the knowledge of it spread promiscuously, even though it be spoken of in scientific terms. We must remember that "false claims," like the famous "three black crows," can be magnified until they grow into a wonderful resemblance to reality and pass current as such to all who are willing to judge "according to the appearance" rather than according to "righteous judgment."

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