Editorial April 25, 1953 Issue

CONCERNING OUR CHILDREN

Richard J. Davis

Frequently in our Wednesday testimony meetings one hears gratitude expressed by parents for the great usefulness of Christian Science in the spiritual upbringing and education of their children. The value of spiritually scientific thinking on this important subject therefore cannot be too strongly emphasized. Children usually bring into a family a happifying experience, but they also bring to the parents important responsibilities. On page 61 of the Christian Science textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," Mary Baker Eddy, its author, writes: "Is not the propagation of the human species a greater responsibility, a more solemn charge, than the culture of your garden or the raising of stock to increase your flocks and herds? Nothing unworthy of perpetuity should be transmitted to children."

No parent wants to see unworthy qualities of thought or character develop in or be transmitted to his children, but in Christian Science we recognize that righteousness, purity, and nobility of character have to be scientifically demonstrated. Children may have been brought into this experience with the blessed privilege of a Christian Science environment, but they cannot be spared the necessity of individual redemption and growth. They therefore need to be lovingly and wisely instructed in the way.

When thought is receptive and unbiased, the truths of Christian Science can be implanted in consciousness with little resistance. The child can be taught the habits of spiritual thinking which, instilled at an early age, will put him in the right path forever. In her book "Miscellaneous Writings" our Leader says (pp. 240, 241): "The sapling bends to the breeze, while the sturdy oak, with form and inclination fixed, breasts the tornado. It is easier to incline the early thought rightly, than the biased mind. Children not mistaught, naturally love God; for they are pure-minded, affectionate, and generally brave. Passions, appetites, pride, selfishness, have slight sway over the fresh, unbiased thought." And she continues on the next page, "From a religious point of view, the faith of both youth and adult should centre as steadfastly in God to benefit the body, as to benefit the mind."

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