Influences play an important part in human experience, and much of education and human progress depends upon the proper selection and utilization of these influences. Wholesome and constructive influences that come through the social agencies for enlightenment and education, through the media of communication, and through daily contacts with associates and-friends are welcomed and appreciated by most of us.
On the whole we turn aside from baneful influences except when they are not recognized as such. The subtle form, attractive dress, and beguiling promise with which these baneful influences are sometimes cloaked necessitate alert watchfulness on the part of those who would not be misled. Such watchfulness is recommended in Hymn No. 383 in the Christian Science Hymnal,
Whatever dims thy sense of truth
Or stains thy purity,
Though light as breath of summer air,
O count it sin to thee.
