Editorial November 15, 1947 Issue

THE TRUTH ABOUT ENVIRONMENT

L. Ivimy Gwalter

How important is one's environment; therefore how necessary that he should understand what environment really is! The dictionary defines "environ" as to encompass, to encircle; and of environment it says, "the surrounding conditions, influences, or forces, which influence or modify." One's mental outlook, his character, and his behavior are supposed to be largely molded and influenced by his environment. Not only companionship and schooling, but neighborhood and neighbors, sunshine and scenery, are among the factors which contribute to one's mode of life and dictate its comforts, refinements, tastes, and interests.

Environment is very commonly thought of as a physical locality in which one lives, and consequently the individual often looks upon himself as the victim of his environment, having little or no power to effect its improvement.

In this as in all things else, Christian Science reverses the testimony of the material senses and proves it false. Under the marginal heading "Infinity's reflection" on page 258 of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," Mary Baker Eddy writes: "Man is more than a material form with a mind inside, which must escape from its environments in order to be immortal. Man reflects infinity, and this reflection is the true idea of God." Again she writes (ibid., pp. 203, 204), "God is at once the centre and circumference of being."

Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.

Send a comment to the editors
NEXT IN THIS ISSUE
Article
Notices
November 15, 1947
Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit