Mary Baker Eddy the Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science, says (Miscellaneous Writings, p. 127), "Wise sayings and garrulous talk may fall to the ground, rather than on the ear or heart of the hearer; but a tender sentiment felt, or a kind word spoken, at the right moment, is never wasted." The truth of this simple but wise statement was once proved by a student of Christian Science who was placed in a situation where it seemed impossible to come to a decision of any sort, let alone a right decision. This sense of confusion and helplessness persisted in spite of endeavors to gain a clearer vision by studying the Bible and the Christian Science textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mrs. Eddy. This state of mind, further, set up an acute feeling of illness and distress. The student, however, in talking to another member of The Mother Church, was met with such kindness that he was led to unburden himself of his trouble. As the interview continued, the kindness in the speech and manner of the other individual became continually more apparent, and while not giving any advice or making any suggestions, while, in fact, indulging in no "wise sayings and garrulous talk," the friend showed such understanding and assurance in the quiet replies that the student went away feeling happy and confident. On facing the problem later, he found that the solution was apparent, and that his way lay clear before him.
In pondering and giving thanks to God for this experience, the student realized that Love, expressed in the spiritual quality of kindness, had effected the healing—not a kindness born simply of human sympathy and pity, which is so often ill-directed and misdirected, but the kindness which is based on the real understanding of God and man. Mere human kindness which believes in the existence and reality of evil may not attain its object of helping the sufferer, but divine kindness, revealing the nothingness and powerlessness of evil, and the eternal presence and power of God, good, is a spiritual law. It is the expression of the omnipotent law of Love and unfailingly accomplishes good. This kindness is never officious, never dominating, never impertinent, but is always calm, clear, and unselfish. The reflection of this divine quality is an essential in healing the sick and reforming the sinner. It cannot be successfully counterfeited, for counterfeit kindness is recognized by its lack of fruitage. Sincerity, steadfastness, and quietness are the hallmarks of true kindness, for Mrs. Eddy says (The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany, p. 295), "Kindness in its largest, profoundest sense is goodness."
Accepting this sense of kindness, we begin to see how completely it was expressed in the life of Jesus. In the Christian Science Hymnal we read (No. 178),
