Testimony of Healing December 21, 1918 Issue

In March, 1907, while at business, I had a sudden attack...

J. Duncan with contributions from Laurina S. Duncan

In March, 1907, while at business, I had a sudden attack of illness, which was afterwards diagnosed as a nervous breakdown, the result of many years of overstrain due to close and long application to work. There did not appear to be any physical disease except stomach trouble and bilious attacks. The latter had been my constant companions since childhood and I had grown quite used to them. I applied the remedies recommended in medical books, but was relieved only temporarily.

My one great desire was to keep myself fit for an active business career; so when the crash came it filled me with greater fear than formerly, for I was always of a nervous temperament. The help of three doctors was sought (one of them a specialist) and they did their utmost to help me overcome the trying condition of mind which had fastened itself upon me. For seven months I struggled on, sometimes returning to business for a few weeks and then having to remain at home or visit various places in search of change of surroundings. My wife and family were filled with fear and anxiety on my account, but just when I had got into a worse condition my eldest daughter was told of Christian Science and suggested that I try it. I was willing to try anything, so that Sunday evening a friend mentioned the case to a Christian Science practitioner, and the next day I received a telegram inviting me to pay him a visit. This immediately gave me hope, for I thought here was a man wanted to help me at once. I know now that it was an expression of the all-loving Father's watchfulness and willingness to help. After seeing him I came home filled with hope, and quickly returned to business, but treatment was continued for many months.

For some years past I have been free from the ailment and I am strong and well, although having passed through a more trying business experience with prolonged hours of work. I realize that man as the reflection of Mind cannot really be overworked. My healing was what is termed slow, but although sometimes disappointed I never lost hope, for the book "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mrs. Eddy appealed to me by its reason and logic, and I knew it was the truth, although unable to rid myself at once of previous medical and religious theories. I am not sorry for the comparatively slow process of grasping the fundamentals of Christian Science, for it made me study assiduously. About twelve months after taking up the study of Christian Science, I had a severe attack of rheumatic fever, and for this had Christian Science treatment. In a comparatively short time I returned to business, although to mortal sense there great physical obstacles to overcome.

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