Article August 13, 1932 Issue

[Written Especially for Young People]

Games

JOHN L. MOTHERSHEAD

Much of the pleasure of playing a game is dependent on the proficiency of the player. Young people therefore strive for skill in games, that their enjoyment may be as great as possible. As Christian Scientists, they are always interested in proving the fact that all things are mental; and when they are playing games, they have an opportunity to develop themselves mentally, as well as to amuse them selves. Courage, strength, skill, and control are all mental qualities, and they should be definitely worked for by one who wishes to excel. There are also certain erroneous beliefs over which one must obtain the mastery, such as fear and timidity.

Our Leader, Mary Baker Eddy, in our textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," has said (p. 199): "The feats of the gymnast prove that latent mental fears are subdued by him. The devotion of thought to an honest achievement makes the achievement possible. Exceptions only confirm this rule, proving that failure is occasioned by a too feeble faith." It follows that whatever the game, the need is present for the overcoming of fear through the upbuilding of faith and spiritual understanding. Fear that one will not be at his best hampers his efforts by creating tension; while faith in God cancels fear, creates peace in thought, and so relaxes his muscles, which are spoken of by Mrs. Eddy as "thought forces" (ibid., p. 199). An athlete knows that perfect relaxation is requisite for any outstanding athletic performance.

Using right thinking to improve his ability does not mean that the young Christian Scientist should play his games in a long-faced, laborious manner. This would defeat their purpose, as they are organized primarily for the expression of freedom and happiness. But he will find that in order to express right qualities of thought he must learn how to overcome mortal mind's suggestions. He must quickly deny any argument of inability, or overresponsibility for his team, or any other error which may assail him.

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