I first heard of Christian Science after two surgical operations and the birth of my second child. My marriage was breaking up and I was in a very depressed and fearful state of mind. In desperation I agreed to go with a dear friend to see a Christian Science practitioner. The practitioner related wonderful healings her children had experienced. What she said impressed me greatly.
Previous to that time I had read a book that had given me a very unfavorable view of Mrs. Eddy. Consequently I refused to read Science and Health. I felt that Christian Science was altogether beyond my reach. It came as a shock to realize how little I knew God, although I had had a comparatively religious upbringing. Mentally I felt a yawning gap between me and the truth. Deep down I knew that Christian Science was the truth; but, hampered by fear and resistance, I turned back to medical help and sleeping pills.
Some years later, after the dissolution of my marriage, I was living alone with my children and feeling very low. One day I rang the friend who had helped me before. As a result of our conversation I started to read Science and Health. I found it uncomfortable to read because I consistently identified myself with mortal mind. I would put away the book, resolving never to read it again, only to return to it. If it had not been for my children I might not have found this "pearl of great price."
