Editorial January 22, 1938 Issue

Fidelity

Duncan Sinclair

Beginning on page 339 of "Miscellaneous Writings" is an article by Mrs. Eddy entitled "Fidelity," which contains some of the most heart-searching questions ever penned. They read: "Art thou a child, and hast added one furrow to the brow of care? Art thou a husband, and hast pierced the heart venturing its all of happiness to thy keeping? Art thou a wife, and hast bowed the o'erburdened head of thy husband? Hast thou a friend, and forgettest to be grateful? Remember, that for all this thou alone canst and must atone."

Could there be a more poignant call to child, man, or woman than that contained in the words just quoted? To the child and young person, the appeal is for thoughtful consideration of their elders; to the husband, it is for loving and considerate kindness; to the wife, it is for patient helpfulness; to all who have a friend, it is for gratitude for the blessing of friendship. And the call clearly states that should its appeal be unheeded, atonement will have to be made. How often have mortals failed in their obvious duty, bringing sorrow, suffering, and care upon others! How often have they had to pay the penalty for their thoughtlessness, their negligence, their selfishness, in bitter repentance!

If the question of fidelity be analyzed, it will be found that lack of love is invariably the cause of the trouble. For if mortals loved as they might they would add no furrow of care to the brow of another, never pierce another's gentle heart, never add to the burden already heavy, never be ungrateful for the blessing of friendship. More of love, and yet more, is one of humanity's great needs, since with it are intimately associated the well-being and happiness of mankind.

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