In 1932 I was laboring under the painful experience of an ulcerated stomach and arthritis. I wore a belt with a steel band to keep my back rigid. This seemed to afford temporary relief. I followed a strict diet and took treatments at a mineral bath resort. In fact, any suggestion that seemed to point a way out of these physical problems was given a trial before it was discarded. Though I continued to grow worse I did not lose hope, and finally I decided to try Christian Science.
A loving practitioner gave me immediate help, and directed me to a Christian Science Reading Room, where I purchased a copy of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mary Baker Eddy. I began the study of the Bible and Science and Health at once. This study became very interesting, and finally I devoted my entire spare time to it. I discontinued taking medicine and began to eat whatever I liked. Then I discarded the support for my back. I was encouraged to take this step when I read on page 167 of Science and Health, "Only through radical reliance on Truth can scientific healing power be realized." This gave me the courage for which I had prayed, and I went about my daily duties from then on without the belt and without ill effects.
Though I had been unable to sleep without lying on an electric hot pad, this difficulty was overcome, and I slept comfortably under normal conditions. The appetite for tobacco and intoxicating liquors disappeared, and I realized that this brought no loss, but did bring great gain. I informed my business associates that I should be happy to attend their celebrations, but told them not to expect me to use liquor or tobacco because I found life so much improved through abstention. I was overjoyed to find that I was highly regarded for taking this stand. Shortly after this I was promoted to a better position, with increased remuneration. The greatest reward in this experience has been to witness the helpful effects it has had on the lives of others, and I rejoice in the words of Isaiah, ''Sing unto the Lord; for he hath done excellent things: this is known in all the earth."
