Articles

To many the so-called human self presents an unattractive and often a difficult problem, the solution of which is willingly ignored whenever at all possible, and at best undertaken with little interest and small hope of success. It is with distinct relief, therefore, even though not unmixed with doubt of our ability to comply, that we come upon definite instructions as to the proper handling of this human self.

The word "simplicity" has several significations, but as here used it is to be understood as being straightforward, sincere, natural, true, free from artifice or duplicity, without affectation or artificiality. In speech, action, and manner one may emulate simplicity, but in its purity it may best be found behind the gates of truth that open with the key of love.

To comprehend and practice Christian Science, everyone who is interested in this subject should learn to think definitely. This prescription applies to all, from the beginners to the most advanced student, for every Christian Scientist can continue to be a learner in this respect.

Christian Science, explained to the world by Mary Baker Eddy in her inspired textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," is a practical religion founded on the teachings of Christ Jesus. The operations of Truth therein set forth extend throughout the boundless activities of the universe, and are applicable in the solution of every human problem.

" I will sing a new song unto thee, O God: upon a psaltery and an instrument of ten strings will I sing praises unto thee. " This outburst of the sweet singer of Israel takes on a new meaning as the Christian Scientist awakes to the true understanding of the "new song" in the new tongue, for the "instrument of ten strings" may be taken for the purpose of illustration as type of the Ten Commandments in their completeness of spiritual interpretation, as revealed in divine Science.

"Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. " This message from the Psalmist came to a student of Christian Science at what appeared to be a very dark hour: fear and discouragement seemed almost overwhelming.

" The time for thinkers has come," states Mrs. Eddy in the Preface to "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" ( p.

To anyone there may come the belief of loneliness or separation, or a feeling of being misunderstood or misjudged, or of having little in common mentally with those with whom one is associated either in business or socially, or of seeing friends and loved ones unfaithful or going far away, or of having to fight a hard battle for right, health, or supply. Then is the time to get away from self-pity and give deep thought to the successful overcoming by others of what appeared to be more formidable difficulties, and to consider how their victories were won, in order to apply to our own problems the right method of conquest.

Across the pages of the Bible a great host of men and women has passed. But the majority have been lost in the colorful background they present, against which, however, has been portrayed a lesser number of strong and impressive characters, whose words and works are with us to this day.

The Mosaic law taught, "Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour;" and in the book of the prophet Isaiah it is written, "Ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord. " To bear false witness is to voice a lie; or, to go back farther, it is to think a lie, to allow a false belief to enter our consciousness.