Throughout all the ages the human heart has been the receptacle for countless ideals and aspirations. In the innermost consciousness of every one there is and always has been a never ceasing desire to attain that which ever seems unattainable, to reach out for things whose approach, miragelike, is ever beyond the grasp. Throughout these ages the thinker and the philosopher have not only seen this condition or plight in which mortal man is found, and which may be defined as a never ending quest for happiness and peace, but many have earnestly endeavored to prescribe ways and means whereby this coveted goal may be reached. That their efforts were fruitless, except in a few rare instances of spiritual insight, is no disparagement of the sincerity of purpose of these devout men, but is an unmistakable indication that their reasoning was obviously erroneous and without a sure foundation.
There is and can be but one true state of happiness, namely, that which, as our Leader tells us, "is spiritual, born of Truth and Love"(Science and Health, p. 57). No rest, no refuge or peace, except that which is in direct consequence or fulfillment of divine law, can come into or abide in the heart of humanity. God alone is the author of that peace "which passeth all understanding." The Bible declares that God is Spirit, Love, the creator of all that was made,—all good, all things real; it must necessarily follow that peace is a reality of being, even as Paul has so beautifully summarized it among the fruits of the Spirit.
The mortal at ease in error, designing a superstructure of life upon the false foundation of pleasure and ease in matter, of the supposed joys of wealth, power, and fame', and of himself as the master builder, does not comprehend or even discern a glimmering ray of Isaiah's illumined words, "The work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance forever." Instead he assembles around himself working tools of an entirely different nature from righteousness,—pride, will-power, self-interest, greed, covetousness,—wholly without a foundation, non-essentials of man's true nature, and expects to rear for himself an abode wherein he may rest and find ease and happiness.
