Testimony of Healing September 28, 1912 Issue

For the benefit of any who may be in the same state...

William E. Steinbach

For the benefit of any who may be in the same state under which I was, and in gratitude for the many blessings received, knowing that I owe all to Christian Science, I submit the following testimony. I was thoroughly, effectually, and instantly released from the bonds of alcoholism under which I had been held for more than twenty years, a bondage which increased in intensity as time went on. During all these years I had allowed myself to drift with the tide, gradually drawing nearer to the precipice, until the yawning abyss of destruction was visible to my mortal senses. All this time mortal mind had been constantly assuring me that I was all right, and the wonder of the age, on account of my being able to absorb more whisky, stand up before the bar longer, and apparently show less effects, than any one. Friends would often advise better things, but all to no avail. I became separated from family and friends through this terrible curse, and seemingly was completely alone, the demon, strong drink, my only companion, while error constantly championed my case with proffers of more drink for every ache and pain, whether mental or physical.

I cannot picture too strongly my former condition, nor can words portray the mental anguish which my friends and absent ones had passed through in the years that had gone. No one knew just where I was, and I had no desire to have them know. Such was my condition when one Sunday I was finally prevailed upon to attend a Christian Science service. I was so impressed with the harmony which prevailed at that service, and the truth was so forcibly placed before me, that a desire was awakened for more, and I inquired when there would be an opportunity to attend another service. I was told there would be one the following Wednesday evening, and when the time came I was there with the friend who had been instrumental in starting me in the right direction.

Shortly after seeking more of the truth, I became the possessor of a copy of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mrs. Eddy, also of a copy of the Bible, which I had not even looked into for years. I began to read, at first a very little, then more, until one night, while sitting alone in my room with this wonderful book of Truth before me, I realized that I felt perfectly contented and restful, just as one does after a tremendous burden has been removed. I had no desire to go back up town to visit my old resorts, or to hobnob with former convivial companions, but retired with a full sense that some great change had taken place in my life. The following morning, on the way down to breakfast, I never noticed a place where they sold or dispensed liquours, although I passed no less than fifteen. Always for years previous, the nearer I got to the place the faster I went, in order to satisfy the unquenchable thirst, and would usually consume from one to two hours in imbibing to get ready to eat, and then the breakfast was usually a disappointment; but on this particular morning I ate a hearty breakfast, going to work on time for once. Luncheon was attended with similar results, and finally the dinner hour passed, then the evening up to the time of retiring (about half-past ten), which was the earliest for years.

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