When I first became acquainted with Christian Science twenty-five years ago, I was in great despair. Amid tears, I prayed God to show me the way that I should go. Mrs. Eddy says in Science and Health (p. 1), "Desire is prayer; and no loss can occur from trusting God with our desires, that they may be moulded and exalted before they take form in words and in deeds."
My fervent prayer was answered. The next day I met a dear acquaintance. She asked me very suddenly, "Do you know of Christian Science? You absolutely have to read the book!" I thought to myself, What is this supposed to be? I have experienced so many disappointments, and this won't help me either. The next day she asked me, "Have you ordered the book?" Actually, I had no intention at all of buying myself the book. But my acquaintance was very persistent. The day after she asked me again, "Have you ordered the book?" This was very embarrassing to me, and I didn't want to hurt her feelings, so I answered, "I will order it this very day." After obtaining Science and Health and beginning to read it, I became most interested. I tried it out once to see just what a treatment might be. Then, suddenly I experienced a great surprise—an immediate healing! I had become so impressed and curious that from then on I took up the study with eagerness.
I learned only later that there are Christian Science practitioners, and as one difficulty after the other appeared, I requested the help of a practitioner. My whole life began to change. The wise practitioner stood by me in my extremity and spiritual development. So effective was her prayerful support that often before her letters reached me, I had the answer in conviction of God's help at hand. The great fear disappeared that had plagued me so much of my life. I had finally found the way to freedom. Difficulties and lawsuits were resolved.
