In February, 1907, I read in a current magazine an article on Christian Science, in which the author made no attempt to treat this infinite theme, but sought, rather, to awaken in the mind of the reader an unbiased apprehension in the face of the world's prejudicial attitude toward it. These few words so aroused my sense of justice, and the editor's note concerning the recent healing of the author through Christian Science treatment appealed so strongly to my own suffering sense, that I immediately decided to investigate the subject.
It may be well to state here, that in midwinter of 1905-6 I had been compelled to leave college because of a nervous breakdown. For the ensuing year I had remained under a prominent physician's care, with slight improvement, and increasing discouragement as the passing months failed to bring about a return to my studies. Right here I stood when the desire for Christian Science came to my awakening thought. It was, however, of paramount importance that I should gain my family's consent before I made the investigation, as my father, previous to his passing on in 1902, had practised medicine for about thirty years. My request was granted because of the deep love for the daughter and sister, made manifest in unceasing efforts for her happiness.
A visit to The Christian Science reading-room in a neighboring city followed, and finally resulted in the purchase of a copy of the text-book. On the third day after the book had been obtained, part of the material remedies were given up, and two days later the remainder. The improvement was marked and continuous for about seven months. At this time there seemed to be an increasing disturbance, and the services of a practitioner were secured. The treatment proved most beneficial, and at the end of five months I was permitted to go on alone, until in the fall of 1908 I found myself well. The healing was not accomplished at a single bound, nor has the whole of the text-book become perfectly comprehensible; but such peace and joy are mine, and such a clear understanding of the Scriptures is constantly unfolding to me, that I feel sure I have found "the pearl of great price." Meantime numerous opportunities have been offered for testing the truth and power of Christian Science, and I can truthfully say that the Principle and rule found therein are invariable.
