In Christian Science we learn that no material condition can prevent any of us from being where we can properly develop. There are no boundaries or restrictions that can bar us from claiming our true heritage as the happy and satisfied children of God. I am grateful for a growing understanding of these facts, as proved in two experiences.
A few summers ago I had the opportunity to work in Europe as a governess for a family. I had learned of the job through a friend, a Christian Scientist who had worked as their governess the previous summer. During the first week of my stay I learned the family's routines and became accustomed to their life style. The mother knew I was a Christian Scientist, and she saw me reading the Bible Lesson (found in the Christian Science Quarterly) each morning. But on my very first day she had expressed concern about my not taking medicine and had wondered if I knew enough to take care of her children in case of an emergency.
The next nine days I was left in charge of all the household responsibilities while the mother had her second child in a nearby hospital. The activities at home went very smoothly. However, upon her return with the infant, the mother changed her attitude toward me. It seemed that tolerance had given way to outward antagonism and irritation. The atmosphere in the house was filled with tension, depression, and distrust.
