Before I discerned the light of Christian Science, upon the restless sea of human existence, often I, impatient, made request, in words like these: "Lord God, Thou knowest best how willing I am to do my service well, but how narrow are the bounds wherein I dwell, how straitened is my life, and how small my sphere. I am without a home and without a human tie of any kind. So wilt Thou not, my Master, increase my usefulness, tear down the narrow boundaries of my life, place me where I may share the service of those who are laboring to do Thy will I ask not where, but only room to do Thy high behest. I count with saddened heart my passing days. Give me one great work, one noble offering whereby to praise Thy name. Enlarge my life, and make its pathways broad, so that my eager soul and longing heart may serve Thee, Lord."
As the light of Christian Science shone forth into the depth of darkness of that starless night, I mused again upon the sacred word, and the answer came; "Struggling heart and short-sighted worker, the fault lies not in the narrow way, not in the straitened life nor in the humble lot; neither at the hearth of home nor in the dearth of human friendship. These are not the hindrances that bind thee, so ask not wider opportunities, but listen to the still, small voice at noon-tide clear. Ask for a larger heart, which is thy greatest need,— a heart enlarged and filled with faith and love. If thou only seekest this, soon indeed thou shalt learn how life below may bloom like life above; and thus with a heart enlarged with love, no path can be narrow or barren."
So under the searchlight of Christian Science I pondered earnestly, and at length, rebuked and penitent, I felt my prayer of yore was wrong. Since then I ask only that my faith be kept clear from errors bold. For I see that thus, and only thus, our steps and work draw near to God. I have learned that by slow and patient effort, endeavor pressing after aspiration and aspiration reinforcing endeavor, we shall finally attain true love and harmony. Each individual must grow into a discriminating knowledge of Truth and things, so as to be able to distinguish for himself. People must be educated by their own experience. It is indeed a satisfaction to know that our bounds are elastic; that every effort we make for a larger liberty aids us in the conquest over what is below, lifts us up; and every outreach for what is above carries us nearer our goal. To gain that goal, which is Love, peace, and blessedness; to achieve a boon so rich; to attain to a state so exalted, is worth all the efforts we can possibly make; all the struggles, conflicts, and vicissitudes of a lifetime; all the pangs and prayers of the most trying experience. For the recompense will be a heart filled with love. "I will run the way of thy commandments, when thou shalt enlarge my heart."
