Article September 1, 2013

One health; — many diseases

C. S. McLaury

Originally published in the April 15, 1890 issue of the Christian Science Series (Vol. 1, No. 24)

The logic of fostering health and morality, versus the guess-work of fighting disease and sin.

When we consider the changes made in the fundamental principles of religious beliefs during the last few centuries, there is certainly much to encourage us; we must conclude also that had they been wholly right, there would have been no need of change: and going still further, to contemplate the conditions under which some of those changes were made, we may well entertain doubts as to whether they are not yet susceptible of further improvement. Because they have changed, we may be sure they formerly were not wholly right; though this fact may not imply that they are wholly wrong. The observer at present sees much to indicate the tendency to disregard ancient beliefs; or at least to refuse to accept them simply because they may have come to us through channels to which we are willing to concede perfect respect. He also finds in humanity an increasing desire to raise their coverings and search for their hidden Principle , — thus showing man's inclination to "Prove all things and hold fast that which is good."

Beliefs of a spiritual nature are not only satisfying to the believer, but they usually point to a higher goal. Their tendency is to elevate thought; and from this higher attitude of thought a much higher conception is reached. It is certainly fair to presume that any advanced condition that is conceivable, can be attained. The mere fact that man conceives of a spiritual existence, must be accepted as a proof of such existence; and the fact that each new conception is in advance of its predecessor, proves the prime Cause still to be far in advance of any position of thought yet attained. Again: the fact that each attitude of thought is in advance of and better than the last, is worthy of consideration as proof that the great causative Principle is infinite goodness; and that man actuated by such Principle , may, in his own consciousness, find conceptions that, by putting off the things that are of the past, would place him at a point far beyond the scenes of discord known only to the mortal senses. Inasmuch as there always has been much discussion in regard to the likelihood of existence beyond what is called time, it may not be out of place to ask for some proof of such existence, other than simple assertions born of mere belief; belief indulged practically to the same extent by both civilized and uncivilized nations. Beliefs not based upon understanding come so far short of the ideal, they are but little in advance of "Faith without works;" which St. James tells us "is dead."

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