Tremendous sense of principle

Councilman and businessman James Alonzo Jordon's story is one of innovation, courage, inspiration and forthrightness. His chapter is titled 'Black Man, White Man, God's Man', and his stirring account of fighting for equal rights for all indicates a man of action and great love. As a young man he 'was reading literature on religion in business, law, and politics...[but he] found no denomination that seemed to relate completely to personal as well as social and economic problems, particularly the many problems of the black community' (p. 104)...at least, not until he met Marion Bond, a Christian Scientist. They married a year later.

Jordon's final paragraph is impressive in its thoughtfulness:

'Every man is part of the world, and his work either adds to or subtracts from its harmonies. When a man's work contributes to the spiritual evolution of mankind, it contains elements of immortality, and his individual life becomes structured to conform to God's plan. the prayers and commitments we make to God to do His work place a moral responsibility on us because we are constantly put to the test of proving our sincerity and trust in Him. The tests are challenging, but if we are faithful, the rewards are spiritually satisfying beyond any personal success' (p. 117)

Marion Jordan's (nee Bond) first encounter with Christian Science resulted in the realisation that 'it offered healing for all situations and had relevance for the entire spectrum of human existence' (p. 121). Working with a Christian Science practitioner, Marion was able to work through an inharmonious relationship in which 'he wanted to change me, and [she] wanted to change him' (p. 122). The practitioner encouraged her to 'dwell on the spiritual qualities of man: his integrity, consideration, unselfishness, purity, kindness [etc and] express this in [her] daily living until they became [her] constant companions' (ibid). Working in this way, she was soon able to move away from that discordant relationship. Meeting Jim Jordon sometime later, she 'was impressed by his tremendous sense of principle' (p. 123). They were soon married.

Together, they let their lights shine for the benefit of the human race.

Julie Swannell