Article April 28, 1997 Issue

Leaving behind false landmarks

Clifford Kapps Eriksen

Many can identify well-known landmarks such as the Pyramids in Egypt or the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor. And anyone eager to return home after having been away knows the thrill of spotting a familiar landmark—a bridge, a field, or a distinctive building close to home. Recognition of such a landmark brings the reassurance of knowing exactly where we are.

But what of false landmarks? What are they and how do they impact our lives? The importance of pondering and answering these questions is suggested by an intriguing statement in Science and Health: "Willingness to become as a little child and to leave the old for the new, renders thought receptive of the advanced idea. Gladness to leave the false landmarks and joy to see them disappear,—this disposition helps to precipitate the ultimate harmony" (pp. 323–324).

A false landmark would be something that gives us a mistaken reading, or misconception, of where we are. In terms of our journey of spiritual discovery, a false landmark—such as the notion that upon reaching a certain age, our usefulness declines—would misguide us or mislead us from the path we need to take. Who wouldn't be glad to leave such a landmark behind and forge ahead to achievement and progress!

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"Patience is gain"
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