|
CSEC ON-LINE REFERENCE LIBRARY |
|
LOUISE B. SNOW
Mrs. Eddy has expressed herself in no uncertain terms upon this subject in "Obtrusive Mental Healing" (Miscellaneous Writings, p. 283), "Any exception to the old wholesome rule, 'Mind your own business,' is rare;" and again on the same page she continues, "I insist on the etiquette of Christian Science, as well as its morals and Christianity." It is always safe as well as productive of the highest results to follow implicitly the directions of our Leader, whose life work is the best demonstration of her obedience to and expression of divine wisdom and perception. At one time a student of Christian Science was confronted by a seemingly serious problem and was called upon to decide whether to go to work promptly and mentally for a dear one, who suddenly seemed far afield from the teaching of Christian Science, or carefully to mind her own business. Information of a most distressing character had been received, and in spite of prompt denial of the report it seemed real; consequently a disturbed condition of thought obtained and persisted until it was realized that a vigorous effort must be made to rout the enemy. She then went to work at once faithfully and effectually to clear her thought of belief in an evil power or presence, using in her search the Bible and Mrs. Eddy's writings. On the evening of the second day of this search for the truth, a sense of need for greater effort and alertness to get results made itself felt, and the problem presented itself of how to continue the search all night if necessary without disturbing other members of the family. Just before the usual retiring hour a most unexpected fulfillment of God's promise, "Before they call, I will answer," came to make possible the needed study. It was during the influenza epidemic and the Scientist was in a physician's family where clear, calm thought was needed every minute to meet the fear and worry and the busy medical influence and activity. While the doctor was absent from the office someone came to ask about the advisability of leaving a patient alone through the night. This patient was very ill, and either from fear of the disease or because of illness at home, no one could be found who would care for her. After trying vainly to think of someone else who could go, it occurred to this student that divine Love was offering this as a means of supplying her need for hours of study, and she at once offered to sit up with the patient. Her offer was so graciously accepted and so much gratitude was expressed that she was fully repaid before even starting on her mission. As she collected her books preparatory to starting out, the doctor, who had returned, asked, "Are you going to read Christian Science to my patient?" To this she replied, "Of course I have no right to do that, but I can do my own mental work while I am there." It was clearly understood that she was to mind her own business, and truly she was so absorbed in that very occupation that no one was more surprised than she at the results of her night's vigil. After making the patient comfortable for the night she attempted to settle down to mental work on her own problem. This was difficult at first; the atmosphere seemed clouded and it needed fearless thought to clear it before any other advance could be made. The simple, impersonal denial of the presence of influenza was made, followed by the affirmation of the ever presence of Love, and soon the desired peace was obtained. All night the Scientist wrestled with the error in consciousness regarding the dear one to whom she owed the debt of right knowing. At last in the morning a measure of relief came and she fell asleep. In an hour she awoke and found the patient very cheerful. Upon asking what the latter would like prepared for nourishment she received this surprising answer: "You will not need to prepare anything for me. I feel so well that I shall get up and get myself some breakfast, so just run home and get some sleep." Instead of going to sleep the student went to the morning service and was fully refreshed by hearing the Lesson-Sermon read. Later she realized, however, that although she experienced no weariness from the long night's vigil, neither was there any relief or at least any solution of the problem in her own consciousness. When she returned from church the doctor said smilingly: "Well, your patient is well. She is up and dressed, and working around the house." The student at once disclaimed having any particular patient, but gladly declared the healing power of Truth even when one had only touched the outer edge of its loving influence. This experience came as a bright-hued rainbow outlined against a dark cloud, like a sweet promise of Truth's mighty power shining in her darkest hour. Not only did it impress the tired doctor, but his patient gratefully acknowledged the spiritual healing and is now learning for herself the healing power of Love through the Christian Science literature. One day, months after the foregoing experience, in taking up the daily study of the Lesson-Sermon this student read first the explanatory note and found new meaning in the words "divinely authorized." She realized that whatever truth unfolded to her each day from the reading of the Lesson-Sermon it was divinely authorized — a message direct from God to be applied to her present need. A new sense of gratitude for the Lesson-Sermon followed this unfolding thought as she studied. Then like "the morning star" came the revelation of Truth relative to that old problem. The subject of the lesson was "God," and every reference proclaimed the ever presence of divine Love. Right where that erring loved one had seemed to be, Love was saying, "I am here." A sense of the sweet presence of God permeated the thought of the student of Christian Science and floated out and on until it seemed to fill all space with the promise, "Lo, I am with you alway," until she understood fully that Love is the constant companion of every idea and is forever maintaining each idea in its proper course and in its right activity. She knew that Principle was even then sustaining, blessing, and upholding this dear one, and that all that had ever needed healing so far as she was concerned was her own fear and the belief that Love could be absent from its place — anywhere. It is needless to say that complete healing was demonstrated and strength was renewed with greater assurance and gratitude for ever present, ministering Love.
The Christian Science Journal, February, 1920 |
Copyright
© 1996-2007 CSEC