Testimony of Healing February 24, 1923 Issue

I should like to testify to the healing power of Christian Science....

Florence M. Cotton with contributions from Harry Emerson Cotton

I should like to testify to the healing power of Christian Science. When I was first led to Christian Science I was a wreck, mentally and physically, suffering from a nervous breakdown. I had been attended by seven doctors, two of whom were specialists. I also spent several months in a nursing home especially for such cases, and several weeks in a medical institution, undergoing certain treatment, also supposed to be particularly beneficial in such cases. Although the doctors tried their best to relieve me, I never seemed to gain any benefit, and came home again feeling that I was simply to live to be a responsibility to others, the thought of which seemed almost too much to bear.

A friend then came to see me and brought with her "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mary Baker Eddy, and asked me if I would like to read it. At that time I did not have the slightest desire to read anything except, occasionally, the Bible, which seemed to be the only thing I got any comfort from at all, and which I often closed, for the simple reason that I did not understand and could not remember what I read. After my friend had gone I picked up the book and started to read; and although I did not realize what it was or understand it, it appealed to me as nothing else ever had done. It seemed as if I must continue reading. There were those who wished to take the book away from me, thinking it was not good for me to tax my mind at that time; but I begged so hard to be allowed to keep it, saying that I knew it could not harm me, that my request was granted. After I had read some of the testimonies I asked my husband if he were willing for me to have treatment, and he said he was willing for me to have anything that would help me. We asked for treatment from a Christian Science practitioner, and from that time the improvement slowly began. Although the complete healing has seemed slow, it has been perfect. I am now able to take up my duties again, and to do more than ever before, and in many ways much more easily.

I can never be too grateful that I was led to this truth, which I am sure is what Christ Jesus spoke of when he said, "Ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." None but those who have passed through a similar experience can fully realize what this healing means to me. I am also more than grateful for the clearer understanding of the Scriptures. I have often wished to understand the Bible, and have picked it up over and over again, simply to lay it one side again, feeling that I never should understand it. Now, through the daily study of the Bible with Science and Health, I am beginning to understand it in its true light. I should like to express my thanks to the practitioners who so willingly and lovingly give so much time to helping others; for had it not been for the encouragement and the helpful thoughts given to me at times by the practitioner and others I am afraid I should have yielded to discouragement altogether. I should also like to express my thanks to God for Christ Jesus the Way-shower, and for Mrs. Eddy, who so earnestly labored for the benefit and help of others; also for all who have in so many ways lovingly and willingly helped me. My earnest desire is to continue this study and grow in understanding, to reflect more of that Mind which was in Christ Jesus, to help others as so many have lovingly helped me, and to try to do my little to destroy error and so help to bring about the reign of God.

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