However, that the equality of opportunity, belonging to the Great Plan, may be preserved, it becomes necessary for all, whether weak or strong, to support each other. Differing attainments must be forgotten in the desire to permit all to develop their powers to the utmost, and thus to achieve joy both here and hereafter. The great problem of every age is how to keep together, as one body, the many who, because of their differing wills, have become different in their powers and attainments. **The Test of Equality.** A test may be applied whereby men may be placed in one class, irrespective of their various attainments. If a man use his powers, with all his might, for his own and others' good, in the cause of universal progress, he is the equal of every other man of like effort. No more can be asked of a man. It is well that humanity, dwelling together, should keep this principle in mind. Men must not be judged, wholly, by their attainments, or by their gifts, but largely by the degree to which they give themselves to the great cause represented by the plan of the major intelligent Being, for the minor intelligent beings of the universe. CHAPTER 26. MUTUAL SUPPORT. The doctrines set forth indicate that each man must exert himself to the utmost. Even this is not sufficient for the full progress of individuals. Every man must also be supported by every other man. Unless this is done, the individual and the community will be retarded. **The Duty of the Strong.** The man who is in possession of strength, acquired by any means whatsoever, is under special obligations to the community. The strong must, somehow, attach to themselves those who are weak; and as the strong move onward, they must pull with them those who are weak. If a person possess knowledge, he must give knowledge to others, so that all may attain great knowledge; if he have great faith, he must use faith until all may know its virtue; if he have acquired great wealth, he must use it so that many may share in its physical benefits. Those who have must give to those who have not. Those who understand the deeper, inner life must not forget those who are not gifted with an understanding of the contents of the vast universe. The weak have similar responsibilities devolving upon them. Under earthly conditions the weak tend to foster jealousy of the strong. This is out of harmony with the law of progress. The weak must seek strength for themselves, and should invite the assistance of the strong. The weak may help the progress of the race by accepting, as a gift, the assistance of the strong. There is no shame in accepting gifts, in learning from those who have more than we have, providing our own powers are used to the full. If the strong will not give to the weak, in the right spirit of helpfulness; or if the weak will not accept the help proffered for their advancement, the whole onward movement will be slowed down.