I was raised in Christian Science. Two healings that my parents related were always meaningful to me. My father broke his leg while his family was visiting on a farm. Through Christian Science treatment alone he was healed and able to drive the family home the next day, using a car with manual transmission. Through her growing understanding of Christian Science, my mother was healed of a gum condition, which her dentist said would deteriorate and cause her to lose all her teeth.
Not until I entered World War II at the age of nineteen did I make this religion "my own." The Bible and Science and Health became constant companions and brought peace of mind. I recall one experience when I suddenly became quite ill in the early afternoon. I asked my commanding officer's permission to return to my quarters, which involved a bus ride. Walking to the bus, I had to stop several times and hold on to the nearest support to keep from falling, because of momentary blackouts. I was earnestly praying for myself, and in praying I felt I should declare statements of truth aloud. I was able to reach my quarters, where I began to read the Bible Lesson found in the Christian Science Quarterly. It was Wednesday, and by the time of the evening testimony meeting I was able to attend and testify to my healing.
A similar experience occurred after I was married. Returning home from the office very ill, I asked my wife to call a Christian Science practitioner for help. I was becoming delirious but could catch parts of the conversation. Before my wife finished the telephone call, there was a sudden improvement so that I was able to stay conscious and pray for myself. The next morning I returned to the office fully healed.
