In traveling by car in the United States, one sees numerous road signs that indicate there is a scenic viewpoint ahead. Usually the traveler has time to stop in a safe parking area and take advantage of a spectacular panorama. Often these observation points are situated at higher elevations to give one an unobstructed view of a snow-covered mountain peak, a peaceful valley, a section of beautiful seacoast, a waterfall, a deep, colorful canyon, or a mirrorlike lake. Of course only those travelers who see the signs and take the time to stop and observe can benefit from what has been prepared for their enjoyment.

What if, in our human experience, we have seen only obstructions and dead ends, which have given no indication of the possibility of a happier, more fulfilling and active life? How can we change our viewpoint? The study of Christian Science inevitably guides one's thinking to a higher, more spiritual elevation where one can glimpse a brighter view. In Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures the Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science, Mary Baker Eddy, writes, "The footsteps of thought, rising above material standpoints, are slow, and portend a long night to the traveller; but the angels of His presence—the spiritual intuitions that tell us when 'the night is far spent, the day is at hand'—are our guardians in the gloom." ^{Science and Health, p. 174.}

Restricted, material standpoints are the result of accepting as fact the unreliable evidence presented by the physical senses—evidence that says man is corporeal, mortal, limited in every way. So one of the first steps in elevating thought is to deny the discord the material senses may be reporting in regard to man and to gain a more spiritual perception of man as the unlimited expression of divine Mind. Man, the idea of Mind, God, reflects the perfect focus and order of Mind. Man's specific purpose is to express God's being.

Our Way-shower, Christ Jesus, on several occasions during his ministry, took the time to go to a "place apart" ^{See Matt. 14:13.} to pray and gain higher, brighter views. Can we do less in order to prove as he did the power of divine Mind over matter and subdue the turmoil evidenced by the material senses? Science and Health states: "The admission to one's self that man is God's own likeness sets man free to master the infinite idea. This conviction shuts the door on death, and opens it wide towards immortality." ^{Science and Health, p. 90.}

There was a time in my business career when I felt I was at a dead end, with no higher viewpoint in sight. The big obstacle in my path was, I felt, my boss. One morning after a particularly long and frustrating conference, I felt I was being driven right up a wall. His repetitious, meticulous explanations, detailed expounding of what I thought were inconsequential points, made me feel like a schoolboy. There seemed to be no acknowledgment of the considerable intelligence and business experience I thought I possessed.

At lunchtime I quickly left the office just to get away, but found myself intuitively going to the Christian Science Reading Room, which was just a few blocks away. Here was indeed a "place apart," a safe and comfortable haven in the midst of a busy downtown area. Here was, so to speak, a lookout point where I could calmly and persistently pray to get a higher view of man.

I began by reassuring myself that man is actually the expression, the emanation, of divine Love and could in reality manifest only spiritual qualities, which have their source in God and are humanly evidenced in patience, orderliness, concern, brotherly love, and thoughtfulness. Then I honestly asked myself whether there weren't some of these qualities expressed in my boss. I had to admit that his motive was to help me because of his desire to see me advance. His considerable successful business experience was being shared with me in a precise and clear way. Gradually my irritation about the morning conference faded away.

I had begun to view the scene correctly from a higher standpoint. From this spiritual elevation the distorted view of man faded from sight, and I returned to my office in an entirely different frame of mind.

The relationship between my boss and me started to change that very afternoon. It seemed to me that he treated me with more consideration and respect. From that time on I was given greater responsibility in conducting my own projects, with all the access to his expertise that I wanted or needed. Moreover, our friendship over the years has remained steadfast and deep. The God-derived qualities I perceived that noontime in the Reading Room have endured in our business and personal association.

Our day-to-day experience is richly enhanced as we utilize the spiritual "vantage points" provided for us through the activities of The First Church of Christ, Scientist, in Boston, Massachusetts. Our Bible Lessons from the Christian Science Quarterly, our periodicals, Christian Science lectures, church services, Reading Rooms, Sunday Schools, all provide spiritual viewpoints. Regardless of how breathtaking and wonderful the views we can see from our highways are, they can only hint at the grandeur, expanse, and completeness of creation, which are revealed to the receptive thought that seeks the higher, spiritual view originating in divine Mind.