One may look at a high mountain and think about the wonderful view to be obtained from its summit, but if that view is to be gained, the mountain must be climbed. This cannot be done by merely reading the guidebook, though the information in it will be of great value once the climb has started. If the ascent be very difficult, a guide may be required, and it will probably be necessary to rope the climbers together for mutual support and protection. Even with all these precautions, however, each climber must take every step carefully and with due consideration for the others. In the more difficult places progress may seem disappointing, almost imperceptible, and sometimes it may be necessary to go back and detour around some obstacle. In other places the way is easier and progress is an obvious, joyous experience.
The mountain climb may serve to illustrate our journey from sense to Soul, from matter to Spirit, a spiritually mental ascent. For this journey we have two guidebooks, the Bible, and "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mary Baker Eddy, which, as the name implies, enables one to understand the Bible. These textbooks must be thoughtfully studied, for they show the way of spiritual ascent.
Guided by the truth, as revealed by Christ Jesus and Christian Science, what more does one need in order to start the spiritual ascent? Unity of purpose and desire which transcends all personal differences is gained by students of Christian Science through loyalty to spiritual guidance. This spiritual unity may be illustrated by the rope used to support and protect the mountain climber.
