Having lived under the guidance and protecting influence of Christian Science all my life, I know that I have a very great deal for which to be thankful.
While a student at school I experienced what seemed to me two remarkable demonstrations. After a physical examination by the gymnasium instructor one day, I was informed that my heart was not normal; that it would not be wise for me to continue taking part in any athletics; and that I should consult a doctor. Although at the time I had not been feeling well, and seemed in particular to become easily tired, I had no idea of any serious difficulty. Upon asking for treatment from a Christian Science practitioner, repeating what the instructor had told me, I was advised not to take part in any athletics until I felt physically well. It seemed but a short time after this that I again felt altogether well, and once more took part in basketball practice, playing for the balance of the season in practically all the games in which my team participated. When I realize how completely this condition was overcome, and how "athletic heart" many times causes lifetime trouble, I know that this truly was a remarkable healing.
At another time, during a game of basketball, I fell heavily on my knee, the impact on the hardwood floor causing what is termed water on the knee. At the time of falling, only a slight bruise was noticeable, but before I had finished dressing, a half hour later, what looked like an immense blister had formed. The coach, upon examining it, predicted dire results unless the knee were given medical attention immediately. However, I paid little attention to his remarks. There seemed no reason for being at all alarmed, as the knee was not painful in the least, beyond a slight bruised feeling. I walked home, and related what had happened. A member of the family, a Christian Science practitioner, handled the case, which was healed almost instantaneously; for, although when I went to bed that night the knee was much larger than its normal size, when I arose the following morning it was altogether normal. That day I reported for basketball practice as usual, very much to the wonder and comment of all who had seen my knee the day previous, and in particular of the coach. This was certainly a very evident testimonial to the power, and almost instantaneous action, of Truth.
As a child I experienced none of the so-called children's diseases, with the exception of a mild case of chicken pox. More recently, during twenty-five months' service in the United States Marine Corps, I passed through epidemics of German measles and influenza with no ill effects whatever; and, although subjected to countless inoculations and to considerable hard work, I was off duty but one half day during the entire time on account of physical unfitness. By striving to realize, when-ever any suggestion of error came up, that "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble," better conditions and more harmonious action were always manifested. I have found that "divine Love always has met and always will meet every human need," as Mrs. Eddy says in "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" (p. 494). Since my discharge from the service, financial supply has been manifested more wonderfully than I could have dreamed possible, thus proving each day this demonstrable truth.
For guidance and the many other blessings of Christian Science I am most deeply thankful; by striving, I hope that I may realize more fully, in daily life and action, the manifestations of this truth.— Billings, Mont.
