Article July 8, 1933 Issue

Learning How to Steer

[Written Especially for Young People]

ANNE CLEVELAND CHENEY

Every boy or girl who has learned to steer a rowboat knows how readily it turns in response to the helm or rudder—just a slight pressure to right or left, and the small craft instantly swerves in its course and answers to one's hand. On great ocean liners the helm is tended day and night, and only those of clear vision, steady hand, and fidelity to their post are suited to the task. And so a helm has become known as that which directs and steers one's course in life, as well as that of a boat on the water.

The helm may well be said to typify the intent, motive, and purpose back of every deed or word; for is it not that which impels and directs? Mrs. Eddy, our dear Leader, tells us on page 113 of "Miscellaneous Writings" that "we have nothing to fear when Love is at the helm of thought, but everything to enjoy on earth and in heaven." How spontaneously, brightly, intelligently, we move along in study hours, recreation, or our daily tasks, when Love impels and directs our motives and movements! One girl felt that the work in the gymnasium seemed much more rhythmical and buoyant when music was played: but no material music is so inspiriting to work or play by as are Love's harmonizing plan and methods. We all find that out.

In Hebrews we are told that the Word of God "is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." When we submit our thinking to this test, knowing that Love is ever at the helm, the intents of the heart become pure and unselfish, serenely and intelligently coöperative with good and with all the lovely, strengthening, building-up processes of good. We yield to divine impulsion, and so are steered safely and happily into right channels. The channels of thought are then not blocked by erroneous suggestions of fear, resentment, ingratitude, self-glorification, or other false traits which do not answer to Love's ordered rule.

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