I am the librarian of a Christian Science Reading Room in a busy downtown area of a city in central California. Assisting visitors in their search for spiritual insights and guidance has been rewarding. Each interaction, whether helping someone find a publication like the Journal, or engaging in a meaningful conversation, has left a lasting impression on me.
Several years ago, at a time I had been praying specifically about violence in our cities, two men dressed in black—one of whom was wearing a ski mask—came into the Reading Room. Since it was a warm day, I had left the front door propped open a little to be more welcoming and to show we were open for business.
Although I was alone, I was able to remain composed. Looking up from my desk, I quietly asked the men, “How can I help you?” There was no response. I could see a look of fear in their eyes. Perhaps they didn’t know what to say or were afraid to answer.
