Article January 31, 1925 Issue

Opportunity in Whatever Occupation

EDNA L. EARNEST

THE student of Christian Science is often tempted to believe that if he were in some other occupation than that in which he is engaged, he could work out his problems more easily. But occupation has very little to do with the question, if one is honestly striving to know God and to live the Golden Rule. In fact, any legitimate occupation, when rightly considered, becomes a rich opportunity to put the teachings of Science into practice.

The writer once experienced a quick and thorough healing through Christian Science. Her joy and gratitude were such that she accordingly longed to be located where she could be active in the healing work of the movement. It seemed necessary, however, for her to remain at that time in the school where she taught. She allowed herself almost to dislike teaching, until gratitude and growth changed her thought to see the schoolroom as a broad and splendid opportunity for healing. When through her understanding and application of the truth, as revealed in Christian Science, obedience was manifested in the place of disobedience, love and good-will had ousted estrangement, cheerfulness and perseverance had taken the place of discouragement and impelled the mastery of a difficult task, she found at hand all the healing work she was prepared to do. Did accidents seemingly occur? Then she must be wise in caring for another's child; and she could always clear her own thought by knowing the truth. Thus the schoolroom became a sanctuary of healing, where she realized God's presence.

Many a young Christian Scientist has thought that if he could get away from people and the busy stir of everyday life into some quiet place alone with God, he could become a good Christian Scientist! To "work out your own salvation" does not necessarily mean that one must be alone and in seclusion to do so. In fact, in the midst of hundreds of students and a large number of teachers of differing religious views, one may find a fruitful place in which to practice charity, forbearance, and brotherly love. In such circumstances one should miss no opportunity to endeavor to live among people as Jesus lived. Right where our daily work lies is the place to prove what our religion teaches. Our growth in Christian Science will be in proportion to our fidelity to its teachings. The love, patience, and high standard of conduct demanded in the schoolroom become crystallized into ideals, which are carried into the homes of the pupils. Who shall say what healing results from them?

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