It was a blessed day when our family was introduced to Christian Science. At the time, we had two small children and were frequently in doctors' offices with our various problems. My dear mother-in-law, whose grandfather had been a Christian Science practitioner, recommended that I call a local practitioner. I did, and this worker became a great help to us as we began to take the first of many steps in our spiritual development. The practitioner showed us how to study the Bible Lesson in the Christian Science Quarterly, and with love and patience answered our many questions about this newfound way of life.
I threw away the numerous medications that had nearly filled our bathroom cabinet, and soon I was healed of allergies and sinus difficulties. The ease with which these longstanding ailments had been banished deeply impressed me, and I was eager to learn more of this healing truth. At first we met with the practitioner regularly. But as we progressed spiritually, these visits became less necessary. We found that flu, colds, and various other illnesses were becoming powerless to gain a foothold in our lives.
Our children went all the way through school without contracting any of the communicable diseases often associated with childhood. Whenever we were notified by the schools that our youngsters had been exposed to one of these diseases, immediate prayer brought a recognition of man's perfection, dominion, and power as God's loved child. We confidently declared the unreality of these illnesses, knowing that all that God made is good. What He did not make could not be true or real, and He sends only good to His children.
We are most grateful that the Christian Science Committees on Publication are often able to provide cards granting exemption from certain medical requirements for children of parents who are Christian Scientists. These cards were always used to request exemption for our children from the various shots and physical examinations given in school, and to excuse them from classes teaching symptoms and treatment of disease. The cards were readily accepted by school officials, who respectfully acknowledged our children's religious rights.
During the twenty-four years we have been studying Science, affirming the presence of the healing Christ in our home has truly blessed our whole family. I have served a local branch Church of Christ, Scientist, in many capacities. These positions have always afforded new opportunities for spiritual growth and enlightenment. All aspects of the Christian Science movement in which I have been involved have benefited me and my family with good health, harmonious relationships, and complete happiness. Christian Science class instruction has equipped me to handle daily challenges with joy. I eagerly look forward to the yearly association meeting, which always brings renewed inspiration and spiritual progress.
I have also found my understanding of this Science invaluable in performing volunteer community service work. As the crime rate soared, it appeared that criminal laws needed thorough legislative review. It was felt that citizen involvement was needed, and I appeared regularly before legislative committees that were studying the system of justice. I had no training for this kind of work and found myself a bit unnerved at the prospect of becoming a speaker for the community. However, I was able to overcome my self-consciousness through earnest daily prayer based on my understanding of Christian Science. I used the Bible Lesson to guide me and listened for God to tell me what to say.
On one occasion, it was evident that I was being "pushy"—pitting my will against those in opposition—in my efforts to get a piece of legislation passed. I turned wholeheartedly to God, saying aloud Christ Jesus' words, "Not my will, but thine, be done" (Luke 22:42). Immediately, a feeling of peace came over me as I realized that God is the governing Principle and that His law prevails. I knew that God controls all true action and that He was in complete control of the situation. I appeared before the legislative committee, was asked a few questions, and the vote was taken. The bill passed unanimously in that committee, and it was ultimately passed by the legislature as a whole.
Later, I was given the privilege of working on a commission charged with the responsibility of revising the state criminal code. I was the only woman appointed who was not professionally involved in the criminal justice system. I viewed the application of Christian Science as a vital force in bringing needed adjustment to the human scene. In my prayer, I acknowledged man's unity with God. Affirming the government of only one Mind, God, I saw the legislative body as subordinated to the divine government and therefore expressing wisdom, power, and love. This helped me keep my thought spiritualized rather than focused on mortal personalities typed as apathetic or uncooperative. It was also necessary for me to pray each day for myself, denying the limitations often attached to womanhood and seeing myself as God's child, constituted of both masculine and feminine qualities. My true work was to glorify God and express Him in all my activities.
During this period the crime problem was emphasized nationwide. Our Christian Science periodicals were up to date in dealing with these subjects, reminding us of what our dear Leader, Mrs. Eddy, tells us in Science and Health (pp. 96-97): "During this final conflict, wicked minds will endeavor to find means by which to accomplish more evil; but those who discern Christian Science will hold crime in check. They will aid in the ejection of error. They will maintain law and order, and cheerfully await the certainty of ultimate perfection." I am deeply thankful for these reminders, and for the encouragement the periodicals have always provided me. Words are inadequate to convey my gratitude for this wonderful Science.
Phoenix, Arizona
