I feel it is my duty and privilege to give this testimony...

I feel it is my duty and privilege to give this testimony of what Christian Science has done and is doing for me. About three and a half years ago I was suffering from what the doctors call gastritis, and after I had been in bed with this complaint for about a month the doctor told me that I was suffering from pleurisy. At this period my employer was in America, and he had written offering me a position which I had been striving for. My illness was indeed a decided setback; so when the doctor called to examine me I put the proposition to him that I wanted to get better quickly, and the quicker the better. However, he just told me that it was a question of time. The only help he could offer me was an operation to take the fluid away. This I readily agreed to, hoping that I would be about in a very short time; but he then started telling me what a risk that would be, as complications might arise. After a few days he called again, and said that something was developing. About a week later he examined me and stated that he thought I had a tendency to be tubercular; so he had a doctor from a near-by hospital examine me, and this doctor stated that I was suffering from pulmonary tubercular complaint. Acting on this, my doctor advised me that it would be better if I went to a sanitarium for further treatment. One of the principals of the firm had been kept in close touch with my progress, and he was informed that I should be sent away for about three months. The doctor had kindly made all arrangements for me, and I had to advise in a day or so, should I decide to go away. It was then that Christian Science came to me in my extremity.

A kind friend had heard of my condition and asked if I would like to have some Christian Science literature. I eagerly read it; and what a joy it was! With the kind help of a Christian Science practitioner and careful study of the textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mary Baker Eddy, I was back at my work in two weeks. Incidentally, before I could resume my duties I had to produce a clean bill of health. I sought the advice of the practitioner who had helped me, and was told that I had no fear to fear, as "man is not material; he is spiritual" (Science and Health, p. 468). So with this thought in mind I went to another doctor, and told him that my firm wanted me to be examined, and could I have a bill of health. This seemed a remarkable thing to ask. However, the doctor examined me. I had told him I was a clerk, and he agreed that I was fit for my duties. What a joy again! When I left that surgery I felt as if I were treading on air. After three weeks, it was suggested to me that I should visit a well-known surgeon for further examination. Again I sought the practitioner, who again put my thought in the right direction. However, I did not go to the doctor suggested, but to one equally as good in his profession. I informed this doctor that I needed a through examination. While he was examining me I kept repeating to myself, as in the former interview, "Man is not material; he is spiritual." After this examination I was declared to be in the best of health; heart, lungs, everything in order. Can anyone realize what this meant to me? Can I be too grateful for Christian Science? This healing has been permanent. Other healings have followed in its wake, such as the overcoming of constipation; also of the smoking and drinking habits which I had acquired at an early age. These went away without any trouble on my part. Also, I have found no further use for profanity; I can make myself understood without this method. Recently, with the aid of a practitioner, I was helped to overcome nasal catarrh. Business worries are being put behind. I am most grateful for the help in home life, and for harmony I had never heretofore appreciated; also, for the aid Christian Science is in trying to overcome quick temper. I find the Christian Science Reading Room a great help during the day when I may have some kind of trouble to overcome. For all that Christian Science has done and is doing for me, I am indeed very grateful.

Harold Ashworth, Liverpool, Lancashire, England.

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June 22, 1929
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