Article May 18, 1946 Issue

No Wrong Answers

JAMES HEARNDEN

An examination period is for many an unpleasant experience, accompanied by worry and fear. In no sphere is this more marked than in school or college life. Some students, indeed, would welcome the abolition of tests of any kind. This, however, would not solve many of the student's problems, for on reflection it will be seen that human existence calls for constant examination of oneself and all that concerns one's relationship with others. The solution, then, is not in avoiding tests or examinations but in overcoming the fears attached to them by realizing man's God-given faculty ever to reflect unlimited intelligence. Jesus' understanding that man is God-endowed with the knowledge of what is true, enabled him at the tender age of twelve to ask questions fearlessly and answer them correctly in the temple, and later throughout his healing ministry.

A young engineer about to enter an examination, for which he had conscientiously done the required study, found himself suddenly beset by fears of certain failure. Seeking help in Christian Science, he was enabled at once to realize that in any line of endeavor examinations are opportunities for registering qualifications and attainments, and are therefore really gateways to advancement or progress. That which advances one is never to be feared. The fear, of course, is really not of the test itself but of the possibility of answering wrongly with consequent failure. But mankind now is privileged, through Christian Science, to learn that God is all-knowing Mind; that what Mind knows is always perfect and right; and that this Mind can never know anything that is wrong. We can take comfort from the fact that a wrong answer or result, then, is not knowable.

One cannot, of course, disregard his obligation to prepare himself for the tests and examinations he is called upon to take. The right sense of his God-given ability to know aright will, however protect him from fear and confusion and enable him to express the clear-mindedness and wisdom that are rightfully his.

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