Turn on the radio, open a newspaper, talk with a friend or a stranger. You may find distress in many guises: sickness, crime, lack, sorrow.

The solution to mankind's problems is available, however, through an understanding of God and our relationship to Him. Christian Science presents this understanding. The world's need being what it is, the power of this Science is too significant to keep to ourselves. We share because we care.

How do we share Christian Science? When we identify ourselves as Christian Scientists, we can be willing and prepared to answer questions people ask. Depending on the circumstances, we might give a copy of Science and Health by Mrs. Eddy or one of the periodicals. Perhaps we could invite a friend or inquirer to a lecture, take him to a church service, or (if the individual is under twenty) to Sunday School. As we listen for God's guidance, we will know what is best to do and say as each opportunity arises.

I first heard of Christian Science a few years ago while on vacation. We met a couple who told us about an impressive healing the husband—a Christian Scientist—had had in Vietnam. That summer we met another family of Christian Scientists. Although they didn't discuss their religion at any length, I could see it was a way of life for them. When I asked about Christian Science, I was invited to a Sunday service. These families, by identifying themselves as Christian Scientists and expressing their reliance on it, opened the way for me.

The following winter I fell while riding horseback. I faced many discouraging limitations. X rays showed not only a broken back but a spinal arthritic condition. That afternoon I phoned the first couple we had met, who lived not far from us. I asked what a Christian Scientist would do in this case.

The next day the wife brought me Science and Health and a current issue of the Christian Science Sentinel. She told me what I had to do was to read and not to worry if I didn't understand everything—that this wouldn't matter. And it didn't! Within three weeks, solely by reading the book, I was completely healed and had resumed all my former activities. This healing was verified by a second set of X rays and a final visit to the doctor.

Filled with joy, I couldn't wait to share this discovery with family, friends—anyone I thought might be helped by Christian Science. Enthusiasm is a good thing, but I'm learning wisdom, too. Mrs. Eddy tells us: "Love inspires, illumines, designates, and leads the way. Right motives give pinions to thought, and strength and freedom to speech and action." ^{Science and Health, p. 454;} We have to be discerning in order to know the right time and the right way to introduce Christian Science. We need to be careful lest we appear to be trying to sell Christian Science or to impress others, rather than to express God. We don't need to personally convince anyone. Spirit attracts.

When asked a question about this teaching, we usually find a simple, brief answer is sufficient. Too much talking can either confuse the inquirer or lose his interest. When he has further questions, he'll ask.

Christ Jesus said, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." ^{Matt. 5:16;} The receptive thought, the Christly consciousness, naturally reaches out toward the light of Truth. Nothing we can say is more effective than the way we live. Identifying ourselves first with Christian Science, and then with our profession or occupation, leads us to consciously express Christlike qualities. As we strive to grow spiritually and to be better followers of Christ Jesus, our light will be brighter. More people will find Christian Science.

We don't have to be experienced students of this Science or feel we know all the answers before we begin sharing. Mrs. Eddy tells us: "Millions of unprejudiced minds—simple seekers for Truth, weary wanderers, athirst in the desert—are waiting and watching for rest and drink. Give them a cup of cold water in Christ's name, and never fear the consequences." ^{Science and Health, p. 570.}

I've given copies of Science and Health to people who might be considered unlikely prospects for Christian Science, including a friend studying to be a doctor, a school nurse, another friend who had recently become an Episcopalian priest, and the wife of my former minister. Each of these had asked for something to read on this subject, except the last. She had heard of Mrs. Eddy, however, and was pleased to receive Science and Health.

The opportunities for sharing are unlimited. Anticipate and be grateful for each of them! Almost as rewarding as finding the precious treasure of this Science is the joy of sharing it. What more valuable gift can we give?