CMP Review 2025-02-09

One of the most profound poems by Charlotte Mason is called “Of the single eye.” It is based on a verse from Matthew that is difficult to interpret: “The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light” (6:22).

Years ago Nancy Kelly helped me understand Mason’s interpretation of that verse. In “Of the single eye,” Mason suggests that the eye really is a lamp that illuminates what we choose look at. “The things so dazzled thee, ’twas not their light, But an illusive brilliance cast by thee;” writes Mason.

The idea is that things are only as valuable or as desirable as we ourselves make them. In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus says, “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses” (12:15). When Mason writes on that verse, it is not surprising that she returns to her theme. “Your mind makes its own values,” she warns.

Read or listen to Mason’s poem entitled “Possessions,” which is in many respects a sequel to “Of the single eye.” The poem offers solemn reflection for you and those in your care. Find it here.

@artmiddlekauff