Testimony of Healing June 21, 1919 Issue

Until I learned something of Christian Science nearly...

Jennie Rankin

Until I learned something of Christian Science nearly eight years ago, there seemed no hope of recovery from a life of invalidism extending over a period of thirty-four years, during which there were but two years when I was able to walk. Poor health seemed to be due to both organic and nervous troubles, and added to these were bowel disorder and severe nervous headaches. Many physicians were tried, but while some help was received, there was no permanent benefit. Following an operation in 1902 my condition became more serious, especially the suffering from what the physicians termed neuritis. A specialist in New York city was called, hoping that he might suggest some treatment which would give more than temporary relief; but nothing could be done in a material way to effect a cure, and for five years previous to taking Christian Science treatment I was confined entirely to my bed. My eyes were so affected that I could not bear the daylight and had to lie in a darkened room, and I was never free from pain. The last physician we consulted told my daughter that I would never be any better, and that there was nothing to be done except to prescribe medicines which might quiet me and afford temporary relief when suffering became unbearable.

I had heard of Mrs. Eddy's teaching many years before, but knew little of any religion and still less of what Christian Science really was. At this time, however, it was again brought to my notice by the healing of a young man intimately known to my son-in-law, and as there was absolutely no other hope of recovery for me, we decided to try it. Progress was made, though very slowly it seemed to me, and there were many times of discouragement; but through the patience and faithful work of the practitioner these periods became less frequent, as did also the acute suffering and the headaches, until finally the latter disappeared never to return. Other manifestations of the trouble and the bowel difficulty were even more stubborn in yielding, but these were gradually overcome, and the benefits received have been permanent. I do not need to resort to material remedies for the bowels; I can enjoy the sunlight, can read Science and Health and other distinct type, and am able to walk.

Christian Science has also enabled me to overcome to a large extent sensitiveness and resentment, and has made me much happier in every way. Whereas for so many years I felt that I could be of no use in the world and was merely a burden, Christian Science has given me a definite, satisfying purpose for which to live,—to reflect good. I am grateful for the knowledge I have of the truth, grateful to all who have helped me to progress in the understanding of what God is and of man's relation to Him.

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