From early manhood I knew of Christian Science. Mother and I lived in the shadow of one of its branch churches. Certainly I should have earlier sought this pearl of great price during the difficulties and disappointments I encountered as a student of singing and music, while earning a living with commercial art. Twice it was recommended to me by friends who knew of my problems, and twice it was refused. In retrospect it is now clear to me that God was preparing the soil for the seed. Health was no problem for me, but the time was not distant when great assurance would be needed that the God in whom I believed, yet feebly worshiped, and whom I did not understand, would sustain me under the impact of defeat, shattered hopes, and great loss.
About four years prior to becoming a student of Christian Science I left a commercial art job to seek a singing career in the theater. The cost of regular and persistent study came out of my earnings. That the project was precarious, there could be no doubt, for I was repeatedly warned that talent alone was not the key to success. The key appeared to involve a sacrifice of Christian values, conscience, and personal freedom, a sacrifice I refused to make. As a result of my moral stand, opportunities and pay were meager, and most engagements were with touring companies. To supplement this income I sold some of my artwork in each city where we performed. My portfolio contained my choicest paintings. At the end of one of the tours, this prized collection was stolen at the theater, and its loss marked the first step toward my acceptance of Christian Science. Soon the theatrical venture ended with no work, no funds, and no means to prove my worth as an artist.
In desperation I at last began the study of Christian Science. From that time onward the spiritual influence of Mary Baker Eddy's great discovery enriched and continues to enrich my life. Soon an avenue opened whereby I was able to assemble a portfolio with better artwork than I had before. My vocal and musical studies were resumed on a higher plane, and with a goal in mind that has proved to be more satisfying than all the theater could offer. Moreover, I soon perceived what constitutes the real reward for the development and use of talent. It is the ability to do it through the power of divine Mind, which man reflects—not through the troublemaking and limited channel of human will.
