Lessons In Truth - Lesson 7 - Annotation 8
Should we ever feel afraid in the presence of a truly great person?
8. No. We should never feel afraid in the presence of a truly great person because there is nothing in the consciousness of a great soul to stir negation in others.
In paragraph 13, page 74, of the text, we read: "You never have a similar feeling in the presence of strong individuality. Individuality . . . gives . . . exhilaration and comfort and encouragement to you" (Emilie Cady Lessons In Truth 7:13). The "strong individuality" referred to is the Christ shining through a soul, being expressed through the personality, so we term that one a great soul or a truly great person. Such a one has developed his personality to be a fit channel for the expression of the spiritual qualities of the individuality (the Christ).
In the presence of a truly great person we feel an uplifting influence, a sense of our own capabilities and spiritual capacities that helps us to release fears and anxieties from our own consciousness. One whose personality has become a clear vehicle for the expression of the Christ, or individuality, has developed love.
"It is through this process of unfolding love that great souls are developed. Men are not created great but with the capacity to become great. Many factors enter into soul growth, some minor and some major, but a soul never attains supermind power without love. The reason why love is essential in a great soul is that love is the binding power, the factor so necessary to strengthening or fortifying the soul" (Teach Us to Pray 108,109).
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Preceding Entry: How may we handle the emotions of fear and timidity that sometimes arise in the presence of an aggressive personality?
Following Entry: What is meant by the "still small voice" (I Kings 19:12)?
