In the Preface of Science and Health, Mary Baker Eddy referred lovingly to her early compositions on Scripture as “. . . the first steps of a child in the newly discovered world of Spirit” (p. viii). On the following page she wrote, “To-day, though rejoicing in some progress, she still finds herself a willing disciple at the heavenly gate, waiting for the Mind of Christ” (ix). Her distinctly childlike attitude toward her discovery, and her continued meekness in the practice of Christian Science throughout her life, inspires mine.
Some years ago at a particular time during my childhood, my heart paused in profound reflection when I came across this statement from Science and Health: “It is possible,—yea, it is the duty and privilege of every child, man, and woman,—to follow in some degree the example of the Master by the demonstration of Truth and Life, of health and holiness” (p. 37). At that moment, Mrs. Eddy became a friend to me. To think that I was being trusted with such a “duty and privilege,” though I was a child!
Once, while walking my regular route home from school I was forcefully taken down a quiet side street, to be bullied and hit repeatedly by bigger children. While one of them socked me over and over again in the stomach, I remained composed, while vigorously, silently praying, declaring in my own thought that we were all children of God, incapable of harming or being harmed. Suddenly the ringleader ordered me to be released. Although I was initially frightened, I was able “to follow in some degree the example of the Master” by forgiving them during the assault and in dispelling fear of any further harassment. Although I saw them near that spot the next day, there was no more aggression.
