I did not begin the study of Christian Science for physical healing, but because of a sense of emptiness in my life. There were so many things I could not understand,—I had been taught from childhood that God is a stern parent, who punishes us for circumstances over which we have no control, and it seemed impossible to me that He could at the same time be a God of love, so when Science and Health was put into my hands three years ago I was ready to receive it. At that time I was wearing glasses, fitted six months before; but in six weeks, with the Bible and our textbook as my only instructors, they were permanently laid away.
Shortly after this a growth appeared on my forehead. This indeed was the testing time. After eight months it became very painful and I was seemingly in a bad condition. A practitioner was sought and I had treatment, but with only temporary relief. Then it was that the question Why? would often present itself to me. In my discouragement a physician was consulted, and he said an operation was the only means of relief, but to this I would not submit. I continued in this condition for one year, but never ceased my study of Christian Science.
Then I went to another practitioner, and in three weeks I was healed—free. What had accomplished the healing? Was it the study I had done? Was it the work of the first or the second practitioner? All had helped to bring about the desired result. Then the question Why? was answered. In the measure that we understand that "God is All-in-all" (Science and Health, p. 113) will our thoughts and mentality be improved, and with this improvement comes the healing, as surely and as naturally as the darkness of night proves nothing with the coming of the glorious sunshine.
