There have been observations made by some Christian Scientists upon others who indulged somewhat freely in the matter of dress. Those who allow themselves in this freedom in material things, may or may not have demonstrated over matter, either in worldly pleasure or in healing the sick. There is one point here that to my mind takes precedence of others. The foundation of Christian Science is God, or Infinite Love; hence the power of demonstration is through its exemplification in our lives. What first to part with, of that in which we have formerly indulged, is to be determined by the action of Mind, not by argument. Having good always in mind, one will drop first the theatre, balls, and entertainments of various sorts, conducted on a material basis; while another will cease to fare sumptuously at table, or to wear fine clothing—all of which is an advance toward God. The rule seems to be to do all the good in our power; to let no living creature suffer at our hands; to be never the cause, indirectly even, of pain to any living thing. When well grounded in this premise, the material sense of Life begins to lose its hold upon the Scientist.
Acting from this premise, can a Christian Scientist eat animal food as nourishment? Is it necessary to refer to the sufferings inflicted upon those who have "given meek tribute of the milk and wool, and set fast trust upon the hands which murder them," to incline the followers of Good to abstain from such indulgences? The only arguments that can be found for this indulgence are founded upon "might is right," in place of Love. Can Christian Scientists continue to be a factor in this cruel warfare against "life which all can take but none can give"?—
