Article December 31, 1938 Issue

"Happiness is spiritual"

DOROTHY MOSELEY BARSON

"Happiness is spiritual, born of Truth and Love," writes Mary Baker Eddy in the Christian Science textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" (p. 57). Truth and Love are ever present and all-powerful; therefore, that which is "born of Truth and Love" must be ever present and reflect the all-power of its creator. And since "happiness is spiritual" and ever present, where are misery, sorrow, and depression? If we are logical, we must admit that there is no room for such false states of consciousness in Truth and Love. They are erroneous beliefs of mortal mind, delusions that would ensnare us into accepting them as facts.

Personal sense is a will-o'-the-wisp; it beckons us on with alluring promises like these: "Just around the corner are joy and plenty. Come with me—a change of place and people will bring you peace of mind;" or, "If only somebody would leave you a fortune, what a good time you would have!" Or sometimes, "If you could just get over this sickness, or this problem in the home, how happy you would be!" Always the promise of happiness is for the future. False teaching goes so far as to make us believe that we have to wait for death to usher us into the harmony of heaven! Instead of listening to the seductive voice of mortal mind and following its misleadings, we should plant our feet on the firm ground of Truth and refuse to be beguiled!

The writer had a helpful experience on board ship when paying her first visit to The Mother Church. The crossing of the Atlantic seemed interminable, and when it was found that timepieces had to be put back an hour every night, it appeared as if the destination never would be reached! Furthermore, she was tempted with the claims of seasickness and of separation from dear ones, and false belief whispered: "Never mind! Happiness and health await you in Boston! A few more days of this misery and you will be there and all will be well!" Quick on the heels of this subtle temptation came the angel message: "Good is ever present, bestowing its blessings here and now. You can never have more of good than you have at this very moment. There is no need to wait for Love's bestowals. Rejoice now, and 'be exceeding glad.' " A grateful and rejoicing heart is instantly blessed, and very quickly the temptation to feel separated from God and the happiness He bestows, was overcome, and the remainder of voyage was spent in joyful activity.

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