Article August 2, 1947 Issue

STAND UNAFRAID

JEAN M. SNYDER

Once a sapling grew from a small outcropping rock in the rapids of the Niagara River, just above its plunge over the falls. In the spring floods driftwood washed around it, logs and ice beat against it, yet there the sapling stood, its roots secured in rocks hidden under the waters. One marveled at the frail tree standing against the fierce current of onrushing waters, It seemed to typify the spiritual poise and peace of one who knows that man is forever established as God's idea, and hence can stand amid the tumult of human discords unafraid.

A tree is frequently used as a symbol of life, strength, beauty, or inspiration. In the first Psalm the righteous man is typified as a tree planted by a river, sustained and nourished by its waters, fruitful and fresh of leaf. Isaiah speaks of those who in place of grief, depression, and hopelessness express joy, praise, and beauty as "trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord" (Isa. 61:3). And in the Poems of Mary Baker Eddy (p. 20) glows her tribute to the oak tree, the mighty sentinel atop a mountain, as

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