Editorial December 31, 1938 Issue

Resolutions

George Shaw Cook

At one time, perhaps more than at present, it was quite the fashion to make good resolutions on January first, many of which, it is regrettable to be obliged to say, were broken on the following day, or soon thereafter.

Had these good resolutions been accompanied by revolution, had they resulted in reformation, in practical abandonment of bad habits and practices, it would have been better; for without fulfillment, promises, however worthy, are of little value. The futility of making resolutions which are not carried out is obvious. Writing on page 204 of her book "Miscellaneous Writings," Mary Baker Eddy, the Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science, says: "By purifying human thought, this state of mind permeates with increased harmony all the minutiae of human affairs. It brings with it wonderful foresight, wisdom, and power; it unselfs the mortal purpose, gives steadiness to resolve, and success to endeavor."

Good resolutions, then, unless followed promptly and persistently by a change in one's habits of thought and action, are of no practical benefit, either to the individual or to others. To make a resolution is easy; to keep it is more difficult. However, Christian Scientists are finding that with the help they derive from acknowledging God, divine Mind, as the source of their strength, courage, ability, and faithfulness, they are better able to keep right resolutions, whether made at the New Year or at other times.

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