In reply to your question, " how to avoid being mesmerized,"—I answer, through Christianity. Honesty in oneself is what opens their eyes to see their own error and the truth of Mrs. Eddy's warning. All must at some time in their experience work out the rule that conquers all sin of their own and the effect on them of other people's envy and hate.
Mrs. Eddy has devoted a chapter in her work, " Science and Health," to the subject of " Animal Magnetism," or, mesmerism, exposing some of its claims, and showing us the way of escape. If instead of saying, " O, they can't mesmerize me," students would profit by her faithful teachings on this subject, they would safely stem the current of malicious mesmerism, and bless her for the words of warning.
The keen spirit seizes the prompt occasion, makes the thought start into instant action, and at once plans and performs, resolves and executes.
