In 1910, Mary Baker Eddy was widely known. Many newspapers in her day were writing about her accomplishments and contributions to society. As people were learning more about this public figure, they were also searching out her main work, Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, and being healed by its message. Today, there's a renewed interest in Mary Baker Eddy. People are asking about her life and are picking up Science and Health to find healing and inspiration. Mrs. Eddy says of her writings and life: "My published works are teachers and healers. My private life is given to a servitude the fruit of which all mankind may share." The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany, p. 218.
People I've talked with about Science and Health often want to hear about the author as they take a look at her book. When they learn something of Mrs. Eddy's journey—from a strict and sometimes oppressive theological upbringing, chronic ill health, widowhood, desertion and divorce, years of experiments with various health systems; to a life of achievement as a Christian healer, lecturer, founder of a worldwide church, of religious magazines, and of an international newspaper—they are inspired! There is something in her struggle that they can relate to, and something in her triumph that moves them.
I found this to be true when a new family moved into our neighborhood and the woman of the house came over to get acquainted. When she asked me what I did, I explained that I worked with a wonderful book about healing. She was immediately interested and asked to see it.
