Editorial March 11, 1922 Issue

Patience

Ella W. Hoag

There are few qualities which have a profounder meaning to the human heart than that of patience. What mortal has not fretted against the necessity of exercising it, and at other times longed for the peace its use would bring? While its demands are constantly knocking at every one's door, its promises always urge on to its practice. There is no virtue which is more perpetually in demand. All through the varied experiences of life it must be called into service, for nothing worth while can be won without it. It stands for so much that one wonders how best to approach the consideration of it.

Nevertheless, its beauties have been sung by poets, and its desirability has been preached in sermon and story through all time. The Bible has many references to it and many admonitions to prove its wonderful advantages. It is quiet and unobtrusive in its nature, and yet is irresistible in its strength. Accepted and cherished, it continually unfolds with greater glory; disregarded and neglected, it still waits undaunted, ready for instant action. Great men through their accomplishments have shown its power to be good; weak men through their very weakness have proclaimed its need. No act is so small that the presence of patience will not ennoble it, and no duty so large that it is not required as an accompaniment. All that is exquisite and lovely tells of its presence and beckons one on to partake of its satisfactions.

Christian Science shows it to us as one of the infinite qualities of infinite Deity, and awakens us to a yet greater longing to encompass its possibilities. Christian Science also uncovers the opposite tendencies of human belief which would prevent, if possible, its every expression. The beliefs of hurry and anxiety, of lethargy and stupidity, all argue for the impatience which would hinder the unfoldment of God's orderly law of patience. From "the tireless worm, creeping over lofty summits, persevering in its intent," to which Mrs. Eddy refers in "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" (p. 515), to the marvelous rhythm of the stars circling in the heavens, all nature declares for the fulfillment of this law.

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