Article October 13, 1980 Issue

Weed and feed

SANDRA MAYHALL JUSTAD

"And if you don't get the root all out," the announcer warned, "the dandelions just pop right back up again." A TV commercial for a turf conditioner was explaining that the only way to remove dandelions permanently is to extract the entire root, which is quite difficult. The turf conditioner offers a solution because it destroys the whole root of the dandelion while improving the soil and encouraging desirable grasses. The premise is that a strong, healthy lawn provides no space for dandelions.

The human consciousness, like a well-kept lawn, needs tending in order to become and remain beautiful. Any evils we discover in thought should certainly be rooted out—one by one, if necessary. But shouldn't we also be applying a generous dose of nourishing turf conditioner? Christ, the true idea of God, feeds us with harmony, permeates our being with goodness. The true idea reveals God's intelligent, harmonious laws ceaselessly governing. It helps us realize that no person or event can interfere with divine Mind's certain guidance of our activities.

Once I was suddenly confronted by a stranger who made accusing statements and ugly remarks. The brief encounter left me totally upset. My thoughts alternated between pity for myself and dislike of the stranger. But the ever-present healing Christ demanded, "Are you going to let evil's rudeness ruin your day? Are you going to rehash this all afternoon and feel miserable?" I desired to hear only what God had to say, and the message continued: "You must love that man. You don't have to like the churlish attitude; that is no part of him. Respect his true, spiritual nature. Even if you have not seen it, you can rejoice that God sees and loves it. Every time you think of that man, you love what God loves."

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