All during my childhood I tried to find the answer to "Who or what is God?" Much of my childish conception of Deity was tainted by fear. My parents couldn't help me, nor could my Sunday School teachers in the church we then attended. Later, when I taught Sunday School in the same church, I avoided the question "What is God?" or just answered, without really understanding why, "God is Love." Later, when I had a family of my own, we were introduced to the study of Christian Science, which outlines vividly the wonderful nature of God. It was Mrs. Eddy's own hungry heart and tireless search for the truth that made her receptive to the revelation and brought this blessed gift to mankind. I will never cease to be grateful for her.
One of the first evidences of God's loving ministrations was given us when one of our sons went out onto a frozen lake. He was taking a plank to another boy who had fallen through the ice, when he too broke through. But the plank our son was carrying on his sled straddled the hole, and he was able to cling to it.
At the outset, I had called a Christian Science practitioner for help, and I will never forget the peace and confidence I felt when she said, "Now don't be afraid. Remember that 'underneath are the everlasting arms'" (Deut. 33:27). Our boy had on heavy boots and winter clothing, but he was able to hold on to the plank for over forty minutes while work continued to save the other boy. When they finally brought our son to shore, dire predictions were voiced, but not one of them proved valid. The youngster was fine, and he went to school as usual the next day.
