Testimony of Healing March 8, 1913 Issue

When I first became interested in Christian Science, I was...

Catharine L. Miles Clark with contributions from Cora B. Miles

When I first became interested in Christian Science, I was many times greatly encouraged and strengthened by reading the testimonies of others, and because of this I give mine, hoping it may help some one. From early childhood I had been delicate in various ways, neuralgic conditions finally culminating in sciatica, which held me under bondage for nearly seven years. At times it so greatly troubled me that I was forced to use crutches, and was often confined to bed for weeks. Different physicians of the "regular" school treated me for this trouble for four years, but I received no relief; then I took other treatment, and for a time was greatly benefited; but after eighteen months, and while still under this treatment, a form of the same trouble came in my right arm, and in a few more weeks it was in the other arm also. Very soon I was unable to wait on myself, and had to be fed and cared for like a baby; the joints in my arms and hands stiffened, and I suffered intensely.

After five months of this condition, during the temporary absence of the one who had been giving me treatment, I determined to try Christian Science. I had previously applied to a practitioner in Chicago, but on learning that material remedies must be relinquished I had decided not to comply with this requirement. I now had a practitioner come to my home; but I found that I was not yet ready for Christian Science, so gave it up, though the three treatments I had already taken had helped me. After two more months of increasing misery, I felt that I could no longer depend upon material treatment, and if there was help in Christian Science for me, I was indeed ready; so I asked a member of my family to procure from the public library a copy of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mrs. Eddy.

At the time I began reading I had been unable to use my hands for seven months, and for more than a month had been unable to step, except from my bed to a chair. I was even obliged to have some one turn the pages as I read; but I had scarcely begun to read when I felt that I was going to be healed. On the third day I rose from my bed and walked down-stairs. I was filled with great joy and happiness. My recovery was slow, but with a daily gain. There were times when I felt I ought to improve faster, and on some of these occasions I sent for a practitioner, who always helped and encouraged me; but he soon persuaded me to continue my work alone. It was, however, many months before all pain and stiffness disappeared. It is now nearly five years since my healing began. I have not been confined to my bed for a day since, and am constantly growing stronger.

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