With gratitude I wish to give this testimony of healing in the hope that my experience may benefit someone who may be in need of such help as I asked for and received. Throughout all of her writings Mrs. Eddy emphasizes the necessity for all, in order to behold man's true selfhood as the offspring of Spirit, to awaken from the greatest of mental illusions, "the dream of life in matter" (Miscellaneous Writings, p. 16). My first physical healing came about through this awakening. Prior to this time the little knowledge or understanding I had of Christian Science was gained through my observation of a case of mental trouble which was healed. My erroneous thinking had led me to believe that Christian Science could do nothing for physical ills to which I had been held in bondage for many years. During the year 1920 I had gone away hoping to receive benefit from a change. While away I became very ill, so that it was necessary to consult a physician. He gave me a thorough physical examination, and called in consultation a skillful surgeon. The result was that I was told an operation would be necessary, and that soon. This looked to me like an utter impossibility. Then I was advised by this eminent physician to return to my home city and my own physician and surgeon, and have the operation performed at once.
I thought of the return journey alone and sick, and it also seemed an impossibility; but as I became quieter and calmer the thought came to me in clear words, like a "still small voice," Why not give Christian Science a trial for this as well as for the mental disturbance? Then, as if it were a vision from God, I was able to see a great light. I was awakened from the lethargic sleep which had been upon me, and knew that God. the great Deliverer, could heal me. I wrote to a Christian Science practitioner who I knew was in Chicago, telling him of my talk with the physician and asking him for help. I also searched out a copy of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mary Baker Eddy and read diligently, and as I read each page seemed illumined with some promise for me. As I received from week to week the letters from the practitioner with helpful suggestions, pointing out the truth that I was the perfect child of God and no harm could come to me, I put my whole trust in God. In an amazingly short time I was healed, and during the years since that time have had splendid health. I rejoice and praise God for His goodness; and would express my gratitude to our revered Leader for giving us Christian Science.— Marietta, Ohio.
