When taking the first steps in Christian Science, one person may read Science and Health by Mrs. Eddy to gain a basis of understanding; another may begin by studying the Bible Lesson in the Christian Science Quarterly. Still another may start by simply attending the services of a branch Church of Christ, Scientist. Each one reaches out for a higher understanding of God in an individual way, propelled by his own needs. Therefore, it is of utmost importance that we respect the distinctive avenue that another takes under God's guidance.

It seems reasonable to say that one's Mind-directed spiritual approach and development represent the progressive appearing of his true identity, his unique individuality as the reflection of God, Mind. To be influenced by another's approach, to do what others advise is the "best way," could be to have other gods instead of turning to the one perfect Mind alone.

Just as you and I must find our own distinct path, so we must understand and trust God's willingness to govern all of mankind. Perhaps one of the greatest challenges in doing this can be found in our homes, with our own children. How clearly we are able to see their need, and how much self-discipline it takes, sometimes, to obey the divine command, "Be still, and know that I am God"¹ —to be willing to let their true identity unfold from within, under Mind's control! The highest expression of love we can offer another is to let go—knowing that his mode of growth stems from and reveals his true, spiritual individuality. And precisely because such growth does represent God's unfolding of one's very identity it is inevitable. Mrs. Eddy writes: "There is but one creator and one creation. This creation consists of the unfolding of spiritual ideas and their identities, which are embraced in the infinite Mind and forever reflected."² Nothing can prevent the natural unfolding of God's ideas in the realm of the real, but on the human scene this unfolding can seem at times to be temporarily blocked by outside pressures and human will.

Children do need parental guidance and encouragement, but the wisest guidance turns them to God for direction. It really is a matter of yielding up pride and the material sense of things, and gaining a fuller understanding of God's government of His man and universe. Isn't the basic source of tension and anxiety the belief that man is an inadequate mortal separated from Deity, and the fear that God may not care for him? Perhaps we're believing in and fearing evil influence. If so, we can realize that divine Mind is the only power and is always imparting to man the intelligence and wisdom he needs. The textbook, Science and Health, declares: "To fear sin is to misunderstand the power of Love and the divine Science of being in man's relation to God,— to doubt His government and distrust His omnipotent care."³ The greatest protection one can have, whether parent or child, is his own true sense of identity, the certainty of his own irrevocable relationship to God. For a parent to try to force the coming to light of this identity in a young person can cause frustration and rebellion.

If the actions and attitudes that please us in our children do not spring from the heart, they mean little. For a child to bow reluctantly to an imposed set of standards without recognizing their divine origin and without the desire to do right is only blind obedience, not the expression of true individuality. At some time or other such a one will have to learn to yield willingly and happily to Mind.

What a wonderful opportunity we have to appreciate our own steps spiritward and those of our wife or husband, our children, neighbors, fellow church workers! Instead of anxiously willing such progress, we can simply cherish the good that comes, recognizing it as individual, divine unfoldment.

The greatest joy we can have is to walk alone with God, to recognize and demonstrate our native dominion and God's wonderful care for man, and to fulfill our own special destiny in time and eternity. Mrs. Eddy writes: