Prior to May, 1904, I had heard the name Christian Science, but knew nothing of its significance or its promise. It was while I was on my way to an appointment with a physician for an examination and treatment for eye trouble that I noticed on a doorway in the office building the words, "Christian Science Reading Room-Welcome." I went on to the office of the physician, but the invitation on the Reading Room door made an indelible impression on my memory.
For several months, eye trouble had been developing. I could not read easily. Direct sunlight and electric light were painful. In subdued light my eyes did not suffer so much, and I could read for brief periods of time. But my work as a college teacher called for many hours of reading and instruction each day. The kindly physician recommended that I keep my eyes shaded and give them as much rest as possible. He suggested that my classroom be fitted with window shades that would provide sufficient but subdued light. The president of the school promptly complied with the physician's recommendation. In my home, I did some reading by carefully shaded lamplight, never by electric light. My wife spent much time reading to me, so that I might be further prepared to carry on my daily work.
From childhood, under the guidance of devout parents, I had read the Bible, including the wonderful healings performed by Jesus and his disciples, with keen interest. In my great need for improved eyesight, I turned to the record of Jesus' healings of the blind with renewed interest, longing for the understanding that might heal me. Thus day followed day and my eyes were no better.
