Article January 5, 1924 Issue

Honesty

FRANCES MACK MANN

Honesty is that mental quality which is just and upright. It is necessary for the formation of Christian character. Were all people to become honest, the greater part of the evils from which mankind seems to suffer would be banished. The Golden Rule would then be always obeyed, and there would be no need for punishment, in prison or in workhouse. Each would become his own judge; for Paul's instruction to the Christian in the church at Rome would be followed, "Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law."

The law of our country establishes certain rules of conduct to secure honesty in business dealings. That is well; but there is an honesty of thought to be gained which no legal action can induce. To a person who is truly honest there are no outlawed debts. Time never annuls a moral obligation. He who has been forced to borrow will pay that indebtedness as soon as possible. Honesty and justice are inseparable. There may come into the thought of the borrower suggestions of ingratitude and resentment toward the one of whom he has borrowed. This is human pride, which resists one's being under obligation. It is the reverse of love. Human law often evades; divine justice never!

"God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." Christian Science has awakened its adherents to a keener sense of honesty in little things than they ever had before. It is considered an illegal act to use government stationery and stamps for personal letters! There is a homely old saying, "It is a sin to steal a pin."

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