THE dignity which remains loving in the face of the world's hatred and misunderstanding, peaceful amid turbulent trials, orderly when confusion would hold sway, and happy and free in the midst of sorrow, is that dignity of Soul which characterized the life and conversation of our Leader, Mary Baker Eddy. The student of Christian Science who understands the true nature of this quality cultivates and utilizes it in his daily life.
The mistaken sense of dignity which looks down from lofty heights with a feeling of superiority born of worldly achievement, social position, or mere human intellectuality has nothing in common with the dignity of Soul. Straightforward, warm sincerity, embracing all in its vision of Love's creation, is expressed by him who comprehends Christlike dignity.
It was probably cold formality, ceremony, and ritualism to which the Preacher referred when he said (Eccl. 10:6), "Folly is set in great dignity." These have no more place in the church established by Mrs. Eddy than they had in the life of Christ Jesus, who with humble dignity made the fishing boat and the wayside his sanctuary, and in washing his disciples' feet symbolized the lowliness with which he expected his followers to take up their work.
In one of her messages to The Mother Church Mrs. Eddy observes (Miscellaneous Writings, p. 126), "We also have gained higher heights; have learned that trials lift us to that dignity of Soul which sustains us, and finally conquers them; and that the ordeal refines while it chastens." Again in the same work (p. 111), she says that the Christianly scientific work of demonstrating Truth, if well done, would dignify angels.
Many of those who intimately knew Mrs. Eddy recognize that she walked the earth with dignity. Likewise, those who have thoughtfully perused her works and earnestly studied them recognize that she was a revelator who completed her work and earned the commendation, "Well done!" At an Annual Meeting of The Mother Church the retiring President, referring to Mrs. Eddy, said: "We remember her graciousness and dignity. We recall the harmonious tones of her gentle voice. Our hearts were thrilled by her compassion, and the memory lives with us. But even more distinctly may we realize her presence with us to-day. Why? Because our own growth in love and unity enables us to comprehend better the strength and beauty of her character" (The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany by Mrs. Eddy, p. 39).
Growth in love and unity is the outcome of the application of the truths expounded in the Christian Science textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures." Herein Mrs. Eddy interprets and defines with clarity the qualities which unfold the dignity of Soul.
The humble Nazarene's life was a succession of trials followed by triumphs. If we, his followers, face each trial which confronts us and retain our consciousness of the dignity of Soul expressed in endurance, patience, and quiet hope, our right endeavors will be brought to a triumphant conclusion. Not for an instant did the Master conceal from his followers the ruggedness of the road which lay ahead. Yet from the fullness of his understanding he could say (John 15:11), "These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full."
Whether in school, office, or home, the individual who manifests true dignity brings to his surroundings and associates graciousness and good humor. In family relationships respect for the rights of others dignifies and elevates each member concerned.
A young student of Christian Science repeatedly participated in family arguments and dissensions which did not actually concern her. This error was uncovered to her by a Christian Science practitioner, and the next time a discussion arose the student remained silent. Since the member involved had asked neither her counsel nor her help, it was evident that he desired to work out his own problems, so she saw clearly that it was not her place to interfere.
At first the family charged her with indifference and lack of interest. However, when no argument confused or disarmed her, the pressure upon her was released, and she never again became entangled. Neither years nor age entered into this dignifying, liberating experience, but rather her applied understanding of the dignity of Soul solved the problem.
Christ Jesus was the perfect exponent of the dignity of Soul. Spiritualization of thought was the primal element in his many wonderful miracles or healings. By bringing to the needy one the exalting apprehension of the presence, persuasive power, and kingdom of God, Jesus demonstrated the power of Truth and helped to bring a right concept of God to the hearts of men. Daily he strengthened his own spiritual understanding by maintaining in consciousness his identity with Soul. He knew his true selfhood to be the harmonious expression of Soul. In his lifework of glorifying God he eased men's travail in their journey from sense to Soul.
Following him to the close of his radiant career, we recognize the superb calm with which Jesus faced the unjust trial at the court of Pilate. He refused to come down to the level of his accusers, meeting with silence their hypocritical questionings. The crucifixion was attended by indignities almost beyond human comprehension, but although he was rejected, scorned, despised, and forsaken by all but a few immediate followers, the compassionate nature of the Christ shone through this darkest hour. From the cross he provided a home for his mother by consigning her to John's care. He also comforted with paradisiacal promise the suffering and repentant thief hanging at his side. Never in the world's history has true dignity been more clearly revealed than when from the depths of his understanding heart he breathed his fervent prayer of forgiveness for his persecutors.
The Master and Way-shower dignified even so great an ordeal as the crucifixion. Rising above this great trial, he maintained throughout the entire experience his consciousness of love for God and man. It is our blessed privilege as his followers to demonstrate, perhaps faintly at first, but with growing strength and clarity, the Christlike nature of true dignity which in reflecting Love elevates, purifies, and refines. Each individual will thus earn for himself the rich reward of the Father's loving, "Well done."
