Christian Science first attracted me as a means of physical healing. For years I had tried material remedies for chronic bowel trouble, internal weakness, and displaced organs, but received little help. Christian Science healed me in a few weeks, and I rejoiced in a sense of bodily health. My curiosity was aroused, and I wished to learn how the healing was accomplished. I read the textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mrs. Eddy, and took class instruction, but the desire for spiritual understanding was not strong; I wanted intellectual satisfaction. There was always a latent thought that if I were seriously ill or in dire physical need I might call for medical aid. I attended Christian Science services only when they did not interfere with those of the church where I was an active worker, and to which I was bound by family ties. I was also afraid of making a mistake in changing to what I thought was a new religion; but my two younger children wished to attend the Christian Science Sunday school and were allowed to do so.
Some time after this one of them became ill with stoppage of the bowels. There was much fever and great weakness. No material remedies were used, and Christian Science help was sought. I was filled with fear, but felt that Christian Science was our only means of deliverance, as I knew of a recent death from this cause, although the doctors had done everything they thought possible for the patient. After nearly a week, during which period treatment was continued by a practitioner, normal action was restored suddenly on Thanksgiving day. Symptoms of inharmony soon disappeared and health was regained. When the change came I said, "God has helped us." The reply was, "Mother, didn't you know that He would?" That day was truly one of thanksgiving.
A year later I was attacked by inflammatory rheumatism. In my helplessness and suffering I thought only of Christian Science as my refuge, and asked for its help with no mental reservations. My physical sufferings were relieved on Thanksgiving day, so that I was able to be carried downstairs for dinner and enjoy a pleasant evening with my family. Slowly but surely activity and health were restored. This healing took place more than seventeen years ago and there has been no return of the disease.
