I had been an invalid twelve years when I heard of Christian Science. Fourteen different physicians had told me I could never walk. I had taken very large quantities of medicine, as my husband was engaged in the drug-business and we were never without a branch pharmacy at the house. Finally the doctors agreed that the last possible resort was a surgical operation, but knowing its probable result I declined, saying, "Let me die whole." With a family of three small children, and with no possible aid from medicine, my case was helpless and hopeless I thought, but in this extremity, which was indeed God's opportunity, I heard of Christian Science and asked for treatment. I sent for "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" and began at the beginning to read it through. Before I had finished the reading of the book, I saw, as it were, a new heaven and a new earth, yet I was not fully conscious of what made everything so beautiful and so changed. One day, while all alone in the house, I was reading Science and Health, all the while inquiring in my own mind, "What is this? What is it that makes everything so beautiful and grand?" when the answer came, "It is the inspired Word, the truth." This was the first consciousness I had of the healing power of the truth I was reading.
At this time I wished for an article which was up-stairs, and without thinking I ran up the stairs like a child. When I reached the head of the stairs I stood in awe, saying to myself, "How did I get up here? I did not climb." I had not walked up-stairs for twelve years. Again I realized that Spirit had carried me up on pinions of love. Then came the realization of how Peter had walked on the water. After that it was no more effort for me to walk than for a wheel to turn. This was in September, 1888. I have been well ever since, and I am constantly studying and working in Christian Science.
I am trying to express my heartfelt gratitude to God by living in obedience, faithfulness, and loyalty to Him, to our revered Leader, Mrs. Eddy, and to our beloved Cause.
