Several years ago, when I was utterly discouraged, — sick in mind and sick in body,—despairing of regaining the health and happiness that seemed to have been lost, I went to a Christian Scientist, hoping to be freed from the pain that had been my companion for so long, but knowing nothing regarding this Science except that it promised physical relief, not even then appreciating the fact that it was in any way connected with religion. My thought always turns lovingly to that time when almost at once the burden of suffering and sorrow was lifted, and a new world took the place of the old. Everything took on a glow of gladness instead of sorrow. I found myself free from mental and physical suffering, with a new-born desire to know something more of this God who had revealed Himself as able to do much more than I could have asked for. For the first time in years I began to study the Bible for the joy of the reading, finding riches indeed in its blessed promises. I also began to study our precious textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mrs. Eddy. It seemed I was starving for the food I found on every page therein. Again and again have I found that the supply of infinite good is ever at hand, to be utilized as fast as we will lay hold upon it; that our God,—infinite good,—does not withhold any good thing from them that walk uprightly. Sickness has disappeared before the word of Truth; plenty has been demonstrated where poverty and fear claimed to hold sway; love has taken the place of hate, and each day witnesses to a greater overcoming of sin.
Words cannot adequately describe the gratitude that is due the noble woman who has stood in the face of misrepresentation and ridicule in order to protect and preserve for us this redemptive truth, and only a faithful life, lived in the earnest desire to follow where she has led the way, can pay the debt we owe her. Her followers may stumble, and stray out of the way, but we are learning that no matter how rough the path may be, she stands firmly therein. It is my earnest prayer that each day may witness in my life a little more honesty of purpose, a little more sin conquered, a little more faithfulness in helping my brother-man to find the peace and happiness that are rightfully his as a child of God; and that thus I may express press my gratitude for the great blessing that divine Love bestowed upon me.
Oskaloosa. la.
