Article April 18, 1931 Issue

Influence

JEANNETTE W. MC MULLIN

In the Christian Science textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," Mrs. Eddy has said (p. 447), "We have no authority in Christian Science and no moral right to attempt to influence the thoughts of others, except it be to benefit them."

While nothing could be farther from the thought of the earnest and sincere student of Christian Science than the desire to influence another, except to benefit that one, even with the best intentions a person of positive convictions may need to guard against the temptation to attempt to govern another's actions. It is equally true that one of less positive tendencies needs to guard against the easily acquired habit of seeking advice from others and looking constantly to person rather than to divine Principle for guidance.

Our Leader has also said (Miscellaneous Writings, p. 288), "Even your sincere and courageous convictions regarding what is best for others may be mistaken; you must be demonstratively right yourself, and work out the greatest good to the greatest number, before you are sure of being a fit counsellor." If the kindly and ever ready adviser always waited to be demonstrably right himself before giving counsel, would not the danger of depriving another of a blessing to be gained by the faithful working out of his own problem be eliminated?

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