When I first became interested in Christian Science, I found the whole question of spiritual progress a bit difficult to understand. I was a few years too old for the Sunday School, and I wondered, "What I can do to deepen my understanding of Christian Science?" I found my answer as I continued reading the Christian Science textbook, Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy. On page 495 in the chapter "Recapitulation" she wrote: "Question.—How can I progress most rapidly in the understanding of Christian Science?
"Answer.—Study thoroughly the letter and imbibe the spirit."
I took that as a call to intense study. I read all of Mrs. Eddy's books, and began to tackle her biographies (and this would end up forming a grand prelude to my work in The Mother Church archives). Reminiscences written by those who had known her became a special favorite. The initial steps taken by those who knew nothing about Mrs. Eddy, or her discovery, helped me feel that my own journey, though tough at times, would lead to growth and progress. They really helped me to see how I could study the letter and live the spirit of Christian Science.
