Article December 5, 1936 Issue

True Ambition

RACHAEL CROWN GORDON

The observer of world conditions readily recognizes the fact that a great deal of human misery is the result of false ambition. Mary Baker Eddy, the Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science, in her communion message, June 4, 1899, says (The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany, p. 129): "I reluctantly foresee great danger threatening our nation,—imperialism, monopoly, and a lax system of religion. But the spirit of humanity, ethics, and Christianity sown broadcast—all concomitants of Christian Science—is taking strong hold of the public thought throughout our beloved country and in foreign lands, and is tending to counteract the trend of mad ambition." Here she not only exposes the error, but, as is her custom, points out the remedy. Since the wrong kind of ambition is responsible for so much suffering, it may be wise for each one to check the trend of his own ambition, for in every heart there is an eager desire for the attainment of something. Whether a false ambition is so deeply hidden as to be almost imperceptible, or actively governing and controlling his thoughts and actions, its influence is felt. It may be for material things, wealth, intellectual attainments, position, or power. On the other hand, there may be a spiritual longing to know God and to serve Him through serving mankind.

National ambition is but a composite of the ambition of all the individuals comprising the nation. So it is clear that if each one would see to it that his own ruling desire leads away from materiality and rests in Spirit, then national ambition would be cleansed and purified. Let no one consider himself so obscure that his right ambition has no value for mankind. Each silently cherished desire to be better and holier, more humble, loving, and unselfish, is a worthy contribution to the whole world. Christ Jesus said, "And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me."

Mrs. Eddy, through the example of her life and the precepts in her writings, has given us inspiration and guidance towards true ambition. In her Message to The Mother Church for 1902 she says (p. 14), "I suggest as a motto for every Christian Scientist,—a living and life-giving spiritual shield against the powers of darkness,—

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