Ernest Holmes suggests in the Introduction to The Basic Ideas of Science of Mind that we study this philosophy to learn how to have:
1) “… an understandable, permanent, and dependable relationship with God.”
2) “… happiness, health, prosperity and a more satisfactory way of living.”
The Science of Mind philosophy provides a way to relate to Life and a way to think about our experiences in life. If there is something else you are seeking, something other than a more satisfactory relationship with God, you should look elsewhere. Do not confuse enthusiasm with excitement. Things may excite you, but enthusiasm that inspires, motivates and fulfills, results from an inner realization. If you are seeking the benefits of a more satisfactory …show more content…
This means you control your own experience — you are really in charge of your affairs and the way they are to develop. Let us sum it up this way: My thought is in control of my experience and I can direct my thinking.”
The Basic Ideas of Science of Mind, pg. 9
This is the full extent of Science of Mind teachings on mental control, self-control, or being in control: you may control your own experience. You may not control another persons experience. You do not control people (including yourself), things, or the world you live in; you control only your experience of it. You do not control how others react to you. You only have control of how you choose to think and respond to others. You do not have control of your reactions or the reactions of others; but if you think before you act, you may choose your actions.
Choice and …show more content…
When we choose to control, we relinquish our freedom. The consequence of choosing to control is that we will be controlled by circumstances and conditions beyond our control. There is nothing in the Science of Mind teachings, no secret or principle, by which we may learn to control anything or anyone. The Science of Mind teaches that freedom is first the exercise of choice, and secondly the experience of the consequence of that choice. There is no freedom without choice, and no choice without consequence. As Moses pointed out in warning us about the impersonal nature of the Law of God, our choice may result in a blessing or a curse, according to how we choose to work with the Law. [see Deu. 11:26-27] There is no punishment or reward other than our choice and the consequence inherent in that choice. There is no control; only the freedom to