The bookshelves in my parents' home contained both medical books, which belonged to my father, and my mother's books on Christian Science. The fact that my dad's profession was based on medical practice while his family practiced Christian Science wasn't something I ever remember our talking about as a family. What I do remember is that his profession required long hours of work and much selfless giving.
Both of my parents set special examples in terms of helping others. I remember when my dad received public recognition for the help he had given to a family in need. I especially remember my mother helping a handicapped person learn a skill that enabled that individual to be of service to others in the neighborhood.
When it came to caring for the family, my mother's practice of Christian Science meant long hours of selfless devotion to our well-being. Sometimes she spent nights awake in prayer when healing was needed. One time comes to mind, when I painfully injured my leg. I was aware of my dad's concern for me and wondered if he would ask me to have medical treatment. But the injury was healed through prayer alone. There were healings of other things like colds, earaches, and stomachaches.
