Article November 4, 2019 Issue

Break a habit and bless the world

Karen Neff

Even the smallest of spiritual victories makes a difference. Every time an unhealthy dependency is overcome through the infinite power of Spirit, God, we are blessed. The world is blessed by it, too; those struggling with similar problems are one step closer to realizing their freedom and their spiritual nature as children of God. It is our duty as citizens of the world to take a stand in individual ways to overcome the human mind’s bondage to material pleasures, habits, and indulgences, no matter how trivial they may seem.

I once had a healing that moved me forward in ways that truly blessed me and, I am convinced, the world. It started with being alert to something written in Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy: “Divine Mind rightly demands man’s entire obedience, affection, and strength. No reservation is made for any lesser loyalty. Obedience to Truth gives man power and strength” (p. 183).

Contemplating this statement helped me realize that my loyalty was divided between Spirit and matter. How? At that time, I was depending on caffeinated drinks each day for energy. I would rationalize that this dependency was so small it couldn’t possibly make a difference. But the Christ, God’s message of love to humanity, would not let this go, and I began to feel a mental prodding to quit. Nevertheless, I continued the use of these drinks. I felt a nagging discomfort in doing so, but I just couldn’t seem to stop. As time went on, I realized my addiction to caffeine was increasing, and I was suffering side effects when I didn’t get that ritual morning cup of coffee to wake me up or that afternoon tea to relax me.

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