Over sixteen years ago I underwent medical treatment for an illness, which was followed by a long period of suffering. I was given narcotics, which did little to lessen the pain, and I feared addiction. I asked the minister of my church to come and pray with me. He urged me to accept the will of God, whatever the outcome, and continue to have courage to endure. I could not accept the thought that God would will such suffering.
A friend, who was a Christian Scientist, gave me a copy of the textbook, Science and Health by Mrs. Eddy. She said it could heal me. She spoke to me of God's love for man, and her words were like a glimmer of light in a black world. But soon I was sent to another hospital, where I was operated on. Following surgery I was placed in an intensive care unit. Barely conscious, I overheard the dire predictions regarding my condition.
The thought that I must live and go home to my seven-year-old daughter and four-month-old son sustained me. With all my heart I turned to God in prayer. And I felt that my prayer was answered. Although weak and under sedation, I was still able to make myself understood. I asked for that book my friend had given me. Science and Health was opened to the Preface and held in front of my face. I had not been able to focus on faces or forms, and yet I could see clearly these first words in the textbook (p. vii), "To those leaning on the sustaining infinite, to-day is big with blessings.'" I knew it was true.
