Article February 18, 1939 Issue

Superior to Environment

FRANK S. VERNON

A Definition of the word "environment" is "the surrounding conditions, influences, or forces, which influence or modify." Considered from the human standpoint, environment may be unpleasant or harmonious. The belief is general that one's activities are largely influenced and governed by one's material surroundings. There is also a prevailing tendency to believe the more subtle suggestion that the influence of environment is inevitable and beyond one's control.

In the light of Christian Science, it is found that this conclusion is based on a false sense of existence, not on the true spiritual sense. Mary Baker Eddy, the Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science, in replying to a question makes clear the distinction between the real and the unreal. She says (Miscellaneous Writings, p. 86): "The atmosphere of mortal mind constitutes our mortal environment. What mortals hear, see, feel, taste, smell, constitutes their present earth and heaven." This unequivocal statement declares the unreal nature of mortal or material conditions and surroundings. It shows that one is influenced by material conditions in proportion to his belief in mortal mind as an entity or power.

That mortal mind is neither an entity nor a power is clearly shown in the spiritually-inspired teachings of Christian Science. It is therefore a logical conclusion that the atmosphere or environment which emanates from this so-called mind must of necessity be unreal. The quality of one's thinking determines his attitude toward his environment, his physical, financial, and economic condition, and the success or failure of his endeavors.

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