At one time I had over three dozen warts on my hands. I had been praying over a desire to have Christian Science class instruction and trusting the Father's guidance. An answer to my prayer came through an article in the Christian Science Sentinel on spiritual growth. It became clear that spiritual growth was what I was seeking. It was also evident that my own concept of growth was matter-based. I wasn't thinking about the warts, just praying for a growing understanding of God. Within three weeks all the warts had fallen off, and I felt free to apply for class instruction. My acceptance came a year later, and this instruction and the subsequent association meetings have proved vital.
When I was pregnant, the doctor who was to deliver the child said there was a growth in my body that should be removed immediately, as it appeared to be enlarging. I asked him to plan for the delivery of my child but not to treat me medically for this condition. He agreed.
I studied the answer to the question "What are body and Soul?" in Science and Health by Mrs. Eddy. It includes these words (p. 477): "Identity is the reflection of Spirit, the reflection in multifarious forms of the living Principle, Love. Soul is the substance, Life, and intelligence of man, which is individualized, but not in matter." I also pondered the definition of "temple" in the Glossary. It begins (p. 595): "Body; the idea of Life, substance, and intelligence; the superstructure of Truth; the shrine of Love." These truths so spiritualized my concept of body that I really did not dwell on the material condition for very long.
