When I first became interested...

Irene Ruth Snow

When I first became interested in Christian Science, I was plagued every summer with a form of respiratory infection that seemed to be caused by an allergy, although tests by doctors whom I consulted before trying Science could not determine the specific ingredient to which I was allergic. Drugs gave little relief, and the congestion was so severe that for days I could not breathe normally and suffered much discomfort.

Colds were also frequent. Now I rarely have colds, and the allergy has completely disappeared. This healing took place some years ago without any specific prayer on my part but through the daily study of the Lesson-Sermon from the Quarterly and the reading of the authorized literature.

Another difficulty I had at the time was that of fatigue so extreme that often I would have to retire directly after dinner, only to awaken the next morning not a bit refreshed. This too was cleared up, and I can now go about my duties keeping normal hours.

There has also been much spiritual growth. I am particularly happy to be learning each day to impersonalize error more effectively in myself as well as in others. The verse from Romans, "The good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do" (7:19), has been extremely helpful. Christian Science shows us how to overcome aggressive suggestions that would make us victims of an unreal power. This has enabled me to be less critical of myself and more compassionate and understanding toward others.

On occasion, when I am tempted to be audibly critical of others or offer an unasked-for suggestion, I have learned to ask myself whether the criticism or suggestion to be offered is meant to bless or whether it is meant merely to assert my own will or personality. In every instance I have found that my motive has not been pure.

I am happy to have demonstrated a gradual and increased improvement in supply and in lovelier surroundings and environment. I am grateful to be married to a Christian Scientist and to be in complete accord with him in rearing our son in Christian Science. Our boy has attended the nursery maintained by a branch church since he was five weeks old and has been lovingly cared for.

I enjoy being active in our branch church, and are there any new words to express gratitude for the gentle, and at the same time practical and constructive, rebuke of practitioners when needed and for a teacher to whom to turn when questions of a deeper nature arise?

I am grateful to have been led to take class instruction early in my study of Science, for this has cleared up many misconceptions of God and man, and I am also grateful for the yearly association meeting, which keeps us constantly alert.—(Mrs.) Irene Ruth Snow, Nanuet, New York.

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Signs of the Times

December 28, 1963

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