Have you ever noticed how readily human opinion polarizes? For almost every issue there are at least two extremes, with earnest advocates committed to each of these conflicting or diametrically opposed views. Whether the issue be small or great, local or global, those on each side seem convinced they are right and must prevail. When one side does win out, a residue of bitterness sometimes persists long afterward, especially in the hearts of the losers.
How important it is to win hearts as well as battles; to advocate one's position in such a way that after the issue has been resolved, all parties have a healthy appreciation of opposing positions and feel a genuine good will for each other.
Christian Science teaches that one can help bring any confrontation to a harmonious conclusion by gaining a clear understanding of the spiritual facts underlying the issue and by approaching the dispute in the spirit of Christian charity. Through spiritual clearsightedness, which sees through the clouds of human opinions, one demonstrates divine intelligence and also is led to express the loving patience that refuses to indulge in bitter personal argument. Hostility must eventually melt when met with forbearance, meekness, good will.
