GRACIOUSNESS

There is a need today for graciousness, expressed in the varied interests and activities of mankind. Too often, in the haste and the endeavor to accomplish many things, impulses which would lead to expressions of graciousness and consideration for others are pushed aside. Yet nothing but the qualities inherent in divine Mind can give us a taste of heaven on earth. Graciousness is one of these qualities.

True graciousness comes from within. It is native to man as the idea of Spirit; hence it never varies. Graciousness is never a mere gesture or a superficial expression of good will to be made at one time and not at another. Since it is inherent in Soul, and man is the reflection of Soul, the expression of graciousness is spontaneous and cannot be arrested or interfered with. It is never dependent on one's mood, but is independent of person, place, or thing.

Mary Baker Eddy writes in "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" (p. 247 ): "Comeliness and grace are independent of matter. Being possesses its qualities before they are perceived humanly." Having its origin in Mind or Spirit, graciousness is eternally reflected by man, Mind's idea. This fact ensures its constant availability and ever–presence.

We may therefore claim graciousness as a quality belonging to our true selfhood and express it whenever and wherever the occasion presents itself. It may find expression in the acknowledgment of a friendly call, in a loving deed performed, or just in the lending of a friendly hand. Sometimes it is a kind word spoken or encouragement given. Whatever may be the outward form it takes, graciousness always stems from Love and is manifested in loving thoughts and deeds. Because its impulsion comes from Love, graciousness is enfolded and sustained by Love. It is expressed in kindness, courteousness, consideration for others, as well as compassion. Graciousness and courtesy go hand in hand. The phrase "a gracious individual" is used to describe an individual who is never ill–humored, but who always reflects the Mind which was in Christ Jesus.

Graciousness was evidenced in the following incident. One day, while the writer was waiting for service in a place of business, a woman called over the telephone for needed information. When it was obtained, she took the time to thank the operator, although she was a very busy woman and every moment counted. It was not just a hasty "thank you," but she told at some length how grateful she was to the operator for being so patient and answering her questions so courteously.

This incident is significant simply in that it illustrates that true graciousness is a natural outflowing from Soul, which brings joy to the one expressing it and to the one to whom it is expressed. Each receives a blessing.

To the human sense of things, the times appear out of joint, with much ungraciousness in evidence. It is refreshing, therefore, to observe simple instances of graciousness such as the one mentioned. Such graciousness more frequently expressed in daily life would heal many a trying situation. Thought imbued with graciousness lifts the seeming burdens of material existence. Disturbing phases of mortal thought are often healed by a simple expression of courtesy.

In the presence of graciousness we invariably experience a sense of ease and spontaneity. This in turn brings out the best that is in us. Self–consciousness or fear abates where Love–impelled graciousness is expressed. Mrs. Eddy writes on page 471 of Science and Health, "Man is, and forever has been, God's reflection." Thus man, because he is Love's reflection, can express nought but graciousness and loving–kindness.

The graces of Spirit may be observed in the lowliest dwellings as well as amid wealth and power. We experience its joy with the child as with the adult. It was once observed in a home which evidenced very little of this world's goods. Each child in this home had his particular duty to perform which contributed to the bringing out of harmony in the administration of the household. Each was taught to entertain the utmost consideration and graciousness toward all the others and to obey the fifth commandment (Ex. 20:12 ), "Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee."

In that home spiritual values were acknowledged as more important than material wealth. It was made clear to the children that it was more important to exercise promptness, loving–kindness, and obedience than to possess a great deal of material wealth.

Jesus said (John 12:32 ), "And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me." The "I" which is lifted up is the Christ, which strengthens, purifies, and heals. Graciousness being a Christly quality, it is always found in the consciousness imbued with the Christ, Truth.

Our prayer may well be that contained in these words of a beloved hymn (Christian Science Hymnal, No. 88):