Testimony of Healing October 20, 1934 Issue

From 1902 to 1907 I speculated in stocks, trying to...

Charles Miner Simmonds with contributions from Mae Steen Simmonds

From 1902 to 1907 I speculated in stocks, trying to accumulate a fortune, and was quite successful until the panic of 1907, which swept over the country, carrying with it my entire savings, and leaving me completely destitute, with many obligations and a family to support. Then followed a period of discouragement and despondency, in the midst of which came the thought of suicide. I then planned to have my life insured, pay the first premium, and end it all, thinking this arrangement would take care of the family, and, as it then seemed, be a solution to my problem, not knowing at the time that "matter has no life to lose, and Spirit never dies" (Science and Health, p. 275).

I applied to one of the largest life insurance companies in New York City for a policy, was examined by their physician, and the report came back that I would not be accepted because I had diabetes in its last stages, and could live but one year. Feeling that perhaps there might be some mistake in their diagnosis, I applied to another insurance company, and received the same verdict. Determined not to be defeated in my plans, I went to our family physician, who was connected with the New York City Board of Health at that time, and requested that he give me a thorough examination. He did as requested—not knowing that I had been previously examined by two other physicians—and again the report was identical with that of the other two. As my father had died of this disease, my fear of it was acute; and in order to regain my health I started a very rigid diet, and continued it for about six months, feeling all the while that I was losing ground and slowly drifting out.

At this point a neighbor invited me to attend a Wednesday evening testimony meeting in a Christian Science church. The service was so beautiful, and the testimonies so encouraging and helpful, that at once I knew this was the religion for me. I then turned unreservedly to Christian Science for help, immediately dropped all material remedies, including diet, had treatment from a faithful practitioner, and read the Bible, together with Science and Health, and within a year I was completely healed. This healing has stood for twentyfive years without the slightest evidence of return. While the healing seemed slow at the time, I can now see that that very thing was a blessing in disguise, for it gave me an opportunity to gain some understanding of God and His Christ, which heals and saves.

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