In 1972 my husband and I moved to a resort area to enjoy a more relaxed life style in retirement. We had lived there for only a few months when a friend suggested that I write a book about my experiences in film and fashion. This seemed like a first-rate idea, so I wrote the book. It was finally completed and published four years later.
In the interim I was asked to appear on television and give talks. Within a short time, what had started as an avocation became an interesting vocation. As Hymn No. 82 in the Christian Science Hymnal tells us, "God is working His purpose out/As year succeeds to year."
One talk was booked in the northern part of the state. A few days before the time to leave, I developed a cold and a cough. It seemed impossible to make the long plane trip, so I asked the agent to cancel the talk or see about getting a replacement. As I rarely had to do this, I was greatly disturbed. But it did seem wise to stay home. The agent was upset and told me the event had been advertised, a large group was expected, and, as a contract had been signed, the organization could sue us. Then she said, after a few moments of thought, "Well, I guess we could call this 'an act of God.' " It was then that the mesmerism broke. I knew that God never punishes His beloved children. I told the agent I would be there as planned. We made the trip, and I was free enough to give an hour's talk. Soon after, I was entirely well. Apparently the group was pleased as I was invited back.
