Article August 11, 1986 Issue

Finding out what disease isn't

STEPHEN GOTTSCHALK

When people have a physical difficulty that isn't obvious or that lingers for a while, their inclination may be to get a medical diagnosis. There has been some recognition recently that such a diagnosis can induce the very fear that worsens the problem! See Alvin P. Sanoff, "A Conversation With Norman Cousins: What You Believe and Feel Can Have an Effect on Your Health," U.S. News & World Report, January 23, 1984, pp. 61–62 . But generally, for people who view medical treatment as the best way to care for their health, their first impulse when they become ill is to ask, "What is it?"

Christian Scientists approach the question of health and healing from a different standpoint. They see health in spiritual rather than physical terms—as the wholeness or completeness inherent in man's inviolable relation to God. Since that relationship is always intact, held by God Himself in unmovable harmony, health is always present to be recognized and made apparent.

One consequence of adopting this new spiritual standpoint is that while not ignoring apparent physical conditions, we tend to be less absorbed by them. To put it a little differently, when a physical difficulty arises we are less interested in finding out what it is than in finding out what it isn't.

Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.

Send a comment to the editors
NEXT IN THIS ISSUE
Poem
I hear a deeper strain
August 11, 1986
Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit