During several months one time, my job situation...

During several months one time, my job situation presented many challenges. Although those in the selling area I was responsible for were performing very well, there was a sense of uneasiness and tension between my immediate superior and me. False accusations were made, including one that claimed I had sworn at an employee and another that said I had written obscenities on a sign-in sheet.

My integrity had never been challenged before, and I was uncertain as to how to handle this situation. Indignation, pride, and self-justification told me to walk off the job. As a student of Christian Science, however, I knew that I needed to actively seek Mind's unerring direction. At this point I remembered the example of Christ Jesus when he was confronted with false accusations. His responses in trying situations were motivated by the desire to glorify God, not to justify self. The prayer of our Master (Luke 22:42), "Not my will, but thine, be done," became a watchword to me. As a result, I was able to work amicably with the employee who had made one of the false accusations and to see his attitude and work performance improve. This entire situation was a good proving ground for the priceless insights Christian Science gives into the relationship of God and His perfect idea, man. These insights really enable us to understand and to keep Christ Jesus' commandment (Mark 12:31), "Love thy neighbour as thyself."

Well in advance of the date, I informed the company of my annual Christian Science Students Association meeting and of my desire to attend it. But two days prior to the meeting I was confronted by senior management with an ultimatum: that I show up for work that Saturday, and if I did not, it would be considered equivalent to resignation. Although I appreciated the fact that an important event was scheduled at work on the same day as my association meeting, the choice was an easy one. Annual students association meetings are authorized in the Manual of The Mother Church by Mary Baker Eddy and provide for each member a unique opportunity for further spiritual growth. I resigned from my job that Friday and attended the association meeting the day after, sure I was doing the right thing.

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July 19, 1982
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