Article August 12, 1933 Issue

Reaching Our True Selves

ETHEL COLWELL SMITH

Christian Science, the gospel which Christ Jesus taught and demonstrated, differentiates between the concept of man as material and the real man, who is spiritual, created by God, Spirit. This may seem transcendental to some, but when accepted and understood this truth can be proved in daily experience through the healing of adverse conditions. When we willingly turn away from matter and material so-called laws to grasp the understanding of Spirit and spiritual laws, we find the latter readily attainable. We discover that these laws of God are practicable, usable, and redemptive in every situation.

How are we to go about reaching this desirable state of consciousness? The Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science, Mary Baker Eddy, asks the question (Miscellaneous Writings, p. 104), "How shall we reach our true selves?" and then gives a definite, concise answer: "Through Love." She explains, "The Principle of Christian Science is Love, and its idea represents Love." To gain some realization of this plain direction, "through Love," the average individual needs to grow into a wider sense of the meaning of love than he has entertained before: love, as understood in Christian Science, is much more than a mere human emotion which chooses a few friends to cherish and maintains an indifferent attitude toward the rest of humanity.

Justice and firmness are qualities of divine Love, as much as are gentleness and forbearance. On occasion, love in human affairs may need to be disciplinary; for a loving parent trains his children to be obedient, to correct selfishness and self-will, and to show courtesy and consideration for the rights of others. The student of Christian Science early learns to extend this resolute sense of Love's law to himself, for self-discipline is salutary. As one refuses to yield to the subtle suggestions of material judgment, he gains substantially on the spiritual side. Contemplation of matter and indulging its whims and demands occupy much of the average person's time, but when through demonstration one reaps the benefits of spiritual thinking, then God as Love and man as His image and likeness become tangible and real to him.

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