When I first heard of Christian Science I was in need of help in every way. A copy of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mrs. Eddy was sent me by a friend of my brother, but upon opening it and seeing that it was a religious book, I did not read it. Later I met this friend, and after talking with him a while I asked him to take me to a practitioner. Through treatment and the study of the text-book I have been healed of rheumatism, stomach and kidney troubles, chronic bowel disorder, and another difficulty which had been with me since childhood and for which I had undergone two slight but very painful operations with only temporary relief. Stammering has been practically overcome, and I have been freed from many bad habits, among which were smoking, chewing, drinking, and profanity. I started using liquor when sixteen years old, and by the time I was twenty was an inveterate drinker. A bad temper has also been overcome through the study and application of Christian Science.
One of these conditions seemingly returned through breaking a moral law, and in this way I have learned that, as Mrs. Eddy teaches, "the pains of sense are salutary, if they wrench away false pleasurable beliefs and transplant the affections from sense of Soul, where the creations of God are good, 'rejoicing the heart'" (Science and Health, p. 265). It was only as I could to some extent forget myself in attempting to help others that this condition was overcome. I am grateful also for gaining some idea of what real substance is. When I hold steadfastly to the definition of substance on page 468 of Science and Health, the material lack is supplied. Greater than all however, is the spiritual uplift, the peace and the joy that are mine in the light thrown upon the Bible by Science and Health. My fervent prayer is that I may make my life a proof of my gratitude.
I am thankful to God and to Christ Jesus the Wayshower, as well as grateful to Mrs. Eddy and to all who have helped me to gain some knowledge of this beautiful truth.— Chicago, Ill.
