Testimony of Healing January 29, 1979 Issue

When I was eight, we attended a cookout during vacation

Georgine Marie Maxwell

When I was eight, we attended a cookout during vacation. A can of gasoline was carelessly used, and it exploded. The shooting flames set me on fire. My brother tackled me and smothered the flames, but one of my legs was badly burned. No medical aid was sought. Instead, a Christian Science practitioner was called, and through his prayerful help we were able to continue our vacation. After a short time the leg was completely healed, leaving no mark or scar.

Years later I realized that forgiveness played a large part in this healing. The man who had started the fire was my father's business partner, and had there been any condemnation or blame, it would have been a difficult situation. I remember reassuring him over and over that I was fine, trying to ease any feeling of guilt he might have. Also, as a pupil in a Christian Science Sunday School, I was learning about the goodness of God, and an atmosphere of love, protection, and harmony filled our home. These were contributing factors in my healing.

Two years ago I had another opportunity to learn more of forgiveness. After a fall from a horse, I suffered on and off with back problems. Finally, any movement was painful, and there was a grating sound when I changed positions. I had help from a Christian Science practitioner, and I prayed myself. I also considered the meaning of such terms as "flexibility," "movement," "false responsibility," and "human will." I felt there had been much spiritualization of thought, but the condition persisted. One afternoon in desperation I implored, "Father, I can't go on. I will do anything to be free—just tell me what!" I saw the answer clearly: "Forgive the horse." Through a mixture of laughter and tears I began to do just that. I realized that my true nature as God's child had never been harmed. By nullifying the belief that an accident had taken place, I could no longer suffer from its effects. I also found other areas in my life that could stand some forgiveness. When I no longer carried the burden of blame, the back condition just faded away, and the healing has been permanent.

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