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LAW OF SYMMETRY

From the April 1916 issue of The Christian Science Journal


SYMMETRY and perfection are prime characteristics of God's universe. Symmetry permits of no useless or unnecessary parts and of nothing out of place. Without each idea in its rightful place, creation would lack perfection; some truths would be out of their proper relation to the rest of Mind's ideas. Thus the embodiment of symmetry and perfection demands that each idea take a certain part in the scheme of the whole, and that it perform this part. On page 505 of Science and Health Mrs. Eddy says, "God's ideas reflect the immortal, unerring, and infinite." This granted, it is clear that each idea must express the perfection of the Mind governing all. This must mean that every child of God is now in his right relation to all the universe, a relation which permits of his contributing his highest expression of good to all and of his deriving the greatest blessings he is able to receive. In this perfect relation to God and the universe each one's activities add their mite to the harmony and song of the infinite whole, and he in turn is dignified and enriched by his relation to the rest of Mind's ideas.

Such is the spiritual status of creation. As applied to human existence, it can mean no less than this: that every man and woman has a place in the activities of mankind which he or she alone is peculiarly qualified to fill, a position which enables the individual to contribute his share in meeting human needs, both materially and spiritually, and which also places him in such a relation to his fellow men that their reciprocal activities administer to his needs, materially and spiritually. It would mean that the author is in the author's place, the carpenter in the carpenter's place, the practitioner in the practitioner's place, the laborer in the laborer's place, and so on. It would insure the expression of symmetry in the activities and business of mankind. Individually, it must signify the highest degree of efficiency and the maximum of opportunity. Collectively, it means harmony and abundance.

Let the reader apply this law to himself, for example. His talents equip him for benefiting the world at large when occupying a certain position in the affairs of mankind. The law of symmetry and perfection demands that he be in that position. His character and nature are capable of enrichment and unfoldment when he undergoes certain experiences or relations with others. The law of symmetry demands that he have and enjoy such relationship. Perhaps there are hidden defects to be brought to light and overcome, such as selfishness, pride, and the like; or perhaps there are latent capacities to be developed and revealed, such as understanding, inventiveness, appreciation of the beautiful, and so on; or there may be need of food and clothing, of the means with which to pay the rent, of funds with which to carry on business enterprises. Whatever the individual's need, the law of symmetry witnesses to him in the light of Truth as already enjoying such a relationship to all as to have it met, for nothing is wanting in the plan of Truth's government; every need is abundantly supplied. Were it otherwise, the universe would lack a plan and symmetry be unexpressed.

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