I first heard of Christian Science from friends who were regular attendants at a branch church. These friends frequently asked me to attend the service with them. I invariably refused curtly, wondering how such intelligent people could have been interested so long in what I was certain was just another ism. One evening, however, I agreed to go, feeling that if I went once they would be satisfied and not ask me again.
For some years I had suffered a great deal from chronic and complicated stomach troubles, for which I had an X-ray photograph taken, the examination revealing an extraordinary stagnation of the stomach. I also had diabetes. The specialist said my condition was incurable and predicted the constant use of drugs for the rest of my life. I was taking a minimum of eight doses of various medicines a day at this time. I never felt well, and altogether my outlook was discouraging and my temper discontented, fretful, and unhealthy.
I had been brought up in an orthodox church, but its words did not satisfy my reason, nor did its works seem to me to justify its continuance. I had thought considerably about man's existence, especially during active service in the world war, and felt there must be a reason for being, but God and His Christ were inexplicable to me.
