On page 452 of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mary Baker Eddy we read this concise and impressive sentence, "Right is radical." When we thoughtfully consider the meaning of these words we find a positive declaration which convinces us of the truth of its statement, and the statement admits of no argument. Consequently the practice of Christian Science must be radical, and excuses for error in any degree are not scientific and do not demonstrate Principle. No less than perfection is the standard set for us. In "The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany" (p. 242), Mrs. Eddy writes, "Christian Science is absolute; it is neither behind the point of perfection nor advancing towards it; it is at this point and must be practised therefrom." So, in following our Leader, which she admonished us to do in the Message for 1902 (p. 4) where she says, "I again repeat, Follow your Leader, only so far as she follows Christ," are we striving earnestly to gain this point of perfection?
We know that Mrs. Eddy proved positively for herself the correctness of the truth she gave us. When she stood alone, courageously lifting on high the word of Truth, scoffed at and ridiculed, did she waver for an instant, or did the universal belief that she was not right interfere with the demonstration she had made for us? It did not, for she knew she was right and had the courage of her inspiration and conviction. She had learned what we all must know sooner or later; namely, that "one with God is a majority," and she heeded the admonition of the apostle, "Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand."
The fact that this truth is always at hand, no matter where we are or under what conditions we may be laboring, gives us an assurance and comfort which nothing else ever has or can. This truth is always ready and available because it is spiritual; so whatever is accomplished must be done by reasoning, which is activity and consequently must have expression. How soon we learn to guard our thinking so as to bring about right results is our individual problem. It is our privilege and duty as students of Christian Science to take a radical stand and maintain this position by our knowledge of right reasoning. This position does not imply holding stubbornly or using will power, for these qualities of thought do not belong to Mind. Will power destroys itself, while Christlike thinking is constructive and is consequently the practice of Christian Science.
