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.
