In testifying to the benefits I have received from the study and application of Christian Science, I desire to render thanks to Almighty God, — the Principle of all good, — and to the noble woman who received the healing message and recorded the truth, with rules for its application to the needs of humanity. A message of such vital import—a divine revelation—surely demands the attention of suffering, sick, and sinning mortals, and their healing must of necessity cause expressions of thanks to the bearer of the message, Mrs. Eddy. To her I owe a debt of gratitude I never can repay.
In 1887 I turned to Christian Science for physical healing for a member of my family who had suffered for years, and availed myself of the services of a practitioner, also bought a copy of Science and Health, the text-book of Christian Science. The healing was rapid and has been permanent. I was thus led to study the subject, but some time elapsed before I could let go of error and apply the teachings to myself, so I continued to suffer until I was completely healed of rheumatism by a Christian Science practitioner, after having tried baths, hot springs, etc., without benefit. This was many years ago, and there has been no return of a single symptom of it since. I had worn eye-glasses for many years, but I now understand that in God is sight, and to the degree that I realize this truth I am able to do without the glasses. The use of intoxicating liquors in a convivial and social way is one of the many errors that has been thoroughly eradicated from my experience, and with its disappearance many physical troubles went also. Smoking has also been relegated to the tomb where all pernicious habits go upon the death of belief of pleasure or benefit in such practices; and when I overcame lying, swearing, envy, jealousy, revenge, passion, and fear, all the physical torments that follow in the wake of these left also.
I can truthfully say, I was lame but now I walk, I was blind but now I see. I stand for practical, operative Christian Science, a religion that will heal all manner of diseases and reform all sinners, that is able to heal and save now, and I commend all to the study of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures." Christian Scientists are performing the noblest work in which mankind can engage, and they gladly join with their inspired Leader in her efforts for the advancement of this great Cause.
