Article April 26, 1924 Issue

Let Us Arise!

M. E. DORIS POUNTNEY

To one Christian Scientist the question of fatigue, especially when arising early in the morning to do mental work before a busy day, seemed to present a stubborn problem. So-called mortal mind argued that the Scientist had had a hard life of continuous struggle, with trying problems to meet, and no quiet times between for rest and recuperation; and many more such specious arguments. The Scientist was conscious of a great desire to give, to help; but somehow, in spite of the direct statement on page 79 of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mary Baker Eddy to the contrary, giving seemed to impoverish and exhaust. Evidently something beneath the surface was far wrong. What subtle argument of error was it that caused so false a representation of fact?

One day, with difficulty and the exercise of will-power, early rising was achieved; but as the Scientist sat with her book on her knee, utter weariness seemed to overcome her and apparently closed her eyes. When she forced them open to read, the words meant nothing; and a dull anger filled her thought. That settled it; the claim was at last uncovered. So-called mortal mind was resisting desperately rather than yield and let the Christian Scientist serve God. The "carnal mind," with its "enmity against God," was pretending to make a big fight against progress, the progress which would finally mean its utter annihilation.

Then the Scientist began to thank God. She thanked God that there was God; that there was infinite, almighty good at hand, ready to bless. She declared her liberty as a child of God; her freedom; and above all, her desire to serve her loving Father-Mother. Her eyes were opened. The words on the pages before her stood out luminous with comfort and power, supplying her need; and the day was filled with rejoicing. Next morning, on waking, the conditions seemed as difficult as ever; but the Scientist was learning her lesson. She lay for a few moments realizing the allness and the loveliness of good, declaring her joy that she might spend her day serving God, and also declaring vigorously that she loved to do it, as indeed she did. This thought filled her with gratitude and rejoicing, and so completely absorbed her that it was with laughter she suddenly realized she was up and nearly dressed!

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