In my home Christian Science was practiced with wonderful results...

HELGA KNISPEL

In my home Christian Science was practiced with wonderful results—my mother was healed of sciatica and a heart disorder, and my sister was healed of an abscessed throat. However, I remained indifferent toward Science and these occurrences, refusing to acknowledge the power of scientific prayer. "Truth is revealed," writes Mrs. Eddy (Science and Health, p. 174). "It needs only to be practised." Although I was unaware of it then, my urgent need was to become receptive to the truth of being that is already revealed to us.

Despite my lack of interest in Science, I was earnestly searching for the true meaning of life, for proof of God's existence. Through exploring philosophy and psychology, extended travel and activities of various kinds, I tried to overcome an inner void and give my life purpose. But these efforts proved unsuccessful. A cloud of pessimism, futility, and resignation seemed to envelop me. In 1970 I was cast into such mental anguish that I saw no way out. There was a strong temptation to run my car against a tree.

Now I was ready to accept a copy of Science and Health by Mrs. Eddy, which my sister gave me. With eagerness and receptivity I read the book. The clarity of its truths impressed me deeply, and I underwent a beautiful spiritual rebirth. Within a few hours, severe depression gave way to gratitude and joy. I was buoyant with an inner tranquillity entirely new to me. My exalted state can best be described in words from Christ Jesus' parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:24), "For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found." Understanding and appreciating divine Science for the first time, I had found my spiritual home!

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