I would like to share some of the ways in which Christian Science has enriched my life with its intelligent and practical explanation of the Bible and strict adherence to the teachings of Christ Jesus.
Before learning of Christian Science I seemed to have no real direction or purpose in life. I was listless and dissatisfied. My mother began taking me to Christian Science Sunday School, and a teacher there gave me a pamphlet entitled "God's Law of Adjustment." I learned that God's laws are revealed to us in the Bible, and in Science and Health by Mrs. Eddy and that obedience to these laws frees us from all our problems. St. Paul said, "The law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death" (Rom. 8:2). This teaching gave me more zest to know true life.
A throat condition that made it impossible to swallow anything but liquids was gone in about a day after a Christian Science practitioner alerted me to my true, spiritual nature. At this point I refused to admit that there was any power apart from God, good. I also realized the power of good and true thoughts from God. And, of course, the denial of matter or flesh as one's true identity is the essential part of any healing.
Another healing was the straightening of a tooth without the use of braces. A dentist had recommended that I wear braces for an indefinite time, but I rejected this idea. The correction came gradually, but after a year or so I noticed that the tooth was in the proper position. I had been straightening out my thinking, bringing thought more in line with God. God's power is sufficient to keep everything and everybody in the right place.
A broken home, when I was growing up, left me unhappy, nervous, and rebellious. Thanks to Christian Science, I realized that real love and joy do not depend upon people but come from an understanding of God and the expression of Godlike love. "Your joy no man taketh from you," Jesus told his disciples (John 16:22). I first had to learn to be joyous because of my gratitude to God. Then happy things could come into my experience—and they certainly did.
Interesting jobs at the Christian Science Center, as well as a happy marriage, came as a result of prayer. It was a joy to give birth to a child at home. I experienced no pain and took no medication. The Christian Science nurses were a tremendous help. I was up that evening for dinner and had no weakness or need to recuperate.
I'm grateful for Mrs. Eddy, who really listened with all her heart to God's direction, and for the Sunday School teachers and practitioners who have helped me. Class instruction has been my greatest joy.
Rowayton, Connecticut
I can verify that part of my wife's testimony which concerns childbirth. I was present, and it was a happy occasion. I would also like to mention that before Christian Science came into my life when I was eight years old, I had suffered from asthma. This was completely healed through Christian Science. Throughout my school years, in the Army, and in employment I have always maintained a near perfect attendance record—which I credit entirely to Christian Science.
