Owing to the presence of Christian Science in our home, I was protected from the so-called children's diseases and the use of any drugs or medicine. I shall never cease to be grateful for the lessons learned in the Sunday School and for membership in our beloved Mother Church.
Some time ago I accidentally picked up a hot appliance, burning my hand severely. The pain was intense, and the skin stiffened. Without a word to anyone, I went to my copy of Science and Health by Mrs. Eddy and opened to these heaven-sent words (p. 414): "Matter cannot be inflamed." This certainly was an angel message, and with my realization of this truth the pain left almost immediately and the discoloration within a few hours. During this time I was called upon to do some tasks which required putting my hand into hot water. Mortal mind suggested that I could not possibly do it, and that I would need to have help. But I claimed my dominion over sense testimony, and another victory was won. This experience was very inspiring to me.
At a time when practical examinations were to be taken, I found much comfort in the following statement by Mrs. Eddy (Pulpit and Press, p. 3): "Know, then, that you possess sovereign power to think and act rightly, and that nothing can dispossess you of this heritage and trespass on Love." The examinations were passed with ease and harmony. At another time I was required to take an intensive hygiene course in which symptoms and causes of diseases were to be memorized. At first I rebelled at this because I knew that God is the only power and these diseases are in reality nonexistent. Thinking along these lines, I recalled that Mrs. Eddy says on page 385 of Science and Health, "Whatever it is your duty to do, you can do without harm to yourself." As I was required to take the course, I felt it right to do satisfactory work. By knowing the truth in the above-quoted statement I was able to do very satisfactory work and also protect myself from any ill effects.
I have been profoundly grateful that I was led to serve as an associate at the Sanatorium of the Christian Science Benevolent Association in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts. It certainly proved a period of growth in spiritual understanding, and we know that our only true growth is spiritual.
May I close with the words of one of our hymns (Hymnal, No. 291):
Quiet, Lord, my froward heart,
Make me gentle, pure, and mild,
Upright, simple, free from art;
Make me as a little child,
From distrust and envy free,
Pleased with all that pleaseth Thee.
— Toledo, Ohio
