The relations which Christianity seeks to establish between man and
man, are indicated in these words, "Love one another." But how is this
possible in a competitive society, where the interests of all are
hostile? How can vital and true love operate between me and my
neighbor, when his misfortune is my advantage, and my loss is his gain?
What does it avail that on Sundays the better spirit is feebly
awakened; what does it avail that then I aspire and long to love all
men, if on the other six days in the week my hand is of necessity set
against them all?
Do you tell me that if my love is deep and pure enough, it will modify
my whole life, and of itself, without hindrance from circumstances,
appear perfectly in all my actions and relations? This is the old
heresy, this is the error of the individualism and egoism which has
hindered us so long. Let us meet it fully and fairly.
In all results there are two elements, namely, that which acts and that
which is acted upon. The character of the individual never does and
never can form his circumstances, but can only modify them. No man is
an artist or a poet by virtue of inward genius alone. No matter how
great his gifts, unless he find a congenial atmosphere and favorable
conditions, his high office is not fulfilled.
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