I have in many ways acknowledged benefits received through Christian Science, and my heart is brimful of gratitude as I recount the blessings which are mine, and which have come to many dear ones through this understanding of Truth. Seventeen years ago I first learned of Christian Science when I was healed by it of a serious trouble, for which two physicians had recommended surgery. This difficulty never returned. I immediately began looking into Science, but I read without the receptive thought; and this brought no satisfaction but rather discord and confusion. Finally, owing to a protracted struggle with nervous prostration, I was helpless for several years. There had been in my family violent opposition to Christian Science, so I was forced to rely upon materia medica. I was finally permitted to try so-called faith-cure, which seemed to be of great benefit at the time, as it relieved me of intense suffering and saved me from the surgeon's knife. The trouble returned, however, in an aggravated form, to be met and mastered in Christian Science. The nervous condition was finally overcome through six months' diligent study of Science and Health.
After having class instruction I saw my way much more clearly, and have been able to overcome much unloveliness in my disposition, such as, proneness to criticise, sensitiveness, resentment, and a host of other unprofitable tenants. I found myself so continuously engaged in the overcoming of error for myself and others, that I gradually lost my love for club and social life, which at one time meant much to me. I have made sufficient progress to realize that all the conditions about me are more harmonious.
My children have been healed in Christian Science of almost all the diseases to which childhood is subject. One of my children was ruptured at birth by the use of instruments, and trusses were worn from the time the child was a young babe till he was six years of age. During this time the best specialists were consulted, and we were assured by each one that the child could never be healed, that he must always wear a double truss and could never engage in active sports. I finally consulted a dear Scientist, who was many times a pillar of strength to me during my early struggles in Science. She insisted that I could overcome this condition myself, in fact she convinced me that the work was mine to do. I at once began. It was three weeks before there was any evidence of improvement, and that was very slight indeed, but through patience and the constant study of our dear text-book the healing was perfected in three months. This was five years ago; there has not been even a suggestion of the old condition in these five years, and the child is one of the most active and energetic of boys.
