Article April 6, 1940 Issue

The Grace of Balanced Being

ELIZABETH WOOLLEY

Those familiar with nature have observed how rare is the spectacle of a wholly symmetrical tree. The natural scientist would promptly explain the reason: that the roots of the tree, spreading unseen beneath the ground, must balance the sum of the branches visible above; otherwise, the pressure of storms overweighs the nourishing and anchoring power beneath. Damage and distortion then begin to occur.

Thinkers have used the figure of the tree to illustrate the need for well-balanced character. Christian Science teaches that in absolute being the real man does not grow from imperfection to perfection, but rather does he evidence the eternal completeness of ever-unfolding Principle. In this connection Mrs. Eddy states in "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" (p. 258), "God expresses in man the infinite idea forever developing itself, broadening and rising higher and higher from a boundless basis."

The basis for spiritual balance is indeed the infinite divine Principle, which controls the universe. A majestic vision symbolizing this balance is given in Job's question, "Dost thou know the balancings of the clouds, the wondrous works of him which is perfect in knowledge?" Within the infinite realm of perfect being, man, God's infinite idea, finds himself poised as the conscious reflection of perfect Mind. His activity is to manifest this Mind in completeness.

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