Some years ago I became aware of an internal growth which caused extreme fear on my part. I had been a student of Christian Science for a short time; so I consulted a practitioner. I shall never forget the peace which came to me as she said, "Be not afraid." Many helpful truths were voiced that day and in subsequent treatments, but the condition did not yield.
Outwardly there was not much change in my appearance, but I experienced distressing symptoms. Although I was able to carry on my duties as both housewife and teacher, as well as my church activities, specific, prayerful work was required and lovingly given.
The difficulty persisted over a period of time and called for consecrated work and devoted study of Mrs. Eddy's writings. I remember particularly a testimony which appeared in the Sentinel, telling of a similar difficulty in which the testifier admitted that surgery had occurred to her, and it had occurred to me also. Like the other testifier, I dismissed this aggressive mental suggestion, for I knew that an operation would bring me no closer to the kingdom of heaven.
Gradually I learned that sickness does not exist in true consciousness, but only in mortal belief; that it has no name, no symptoms; and that in reality the trouble is never physical, but mental, for only mortal mind can experience error. Finally one day a practitioner roused my thought by saying: "You are not a little mortal with or without an internal growth! You are the image and likeness of God, spiritual and perfect."
From that moment on, my progress was rapid. I realized that, as Mrs. Eddy says (Unity of Good, p. 60), "This false sense of substance must yield to His eternal presence, and so dissolve." I do not know just when the physical manifestation disappeared, but one day I joyously discovered that I was free. I am more grateful than I can ever express to the loving practitioners who at different times held up my hands and guided me along the way.
Although I did not seek Christian Science primarily for physical healing, I have been freed from periodic headaches, an infected finger, a sprained ankle, and colds. Some unpleasant traits of character have disappeared, and I was healed of grief at the passing on of a loved one. But these are just the signs which followed my changed thinking after I learned of this wonderful religion, which gives purpose to life and reveals the true nature of God and man. I am progressively grateful for the privilege of class instruction.
I pray that my gratitude to God for our Way-shower, Christ Jesus, and for our beloved Leader, Mrs. Eddy, may find expression in more devoted service in the Cause of Christian Science, which is reinstating true Christianity among mankind.— New York, New York.
