The title of an article in the July 15, 1985, Sentinel, "Let Spirit...

Doris Jane Haldorsen

The title of an article in the July 15, 1985, Sentinel, "Let Spirit form you anew," was very helpful during an experience I had around that time, and I certainly attest to being formed anew.

Sometime earlier I had begun having difficulty walking and would fall down without warning. This became so frequent that I began using a wheelchair. I called a Christian Science practitioner, who agreed to pray with me. I had attended a Christian Science Sunday School while growing up, had married a devoted Christian Scientist, and had had class instruction in Christian Science. My life until this point had been very free of physical trouble.

It was time to get busy with earnest prayer and study. The Bible verses about being born again were read, reread, and studied (see John 3:3-7). I learned to focus my thought on God rather than on my body. Pride had to be overcome; humility took its place. I also had to learn patience. Time seemed to drag as I sat all day in a chair, but I became increasingly grateful for the time to read and study. And I came to feel joy as I realized this was an opportunity to prove what I had always believed. It wasn't easy to be happy when I couldn't walk normally, but the realization of the true foundation of my joy was a real unfolding.

The Christian Science periodicals were constantly by my side, and the articles and testimonies were so helpful. The loving support of the practitioner, whenever I called, was expressed in words of truth that sustained and encouraged me. Also, a willingness to become childlike and a study of the synonyms for God found in Science and Health, as well as passages from the psalms and references in Science and Health that include the word rise, were all part of this learning period.

Attendance at church on Wednesdays and Sundays, and sharing the love the members of the church showered on me, were constant blessings. And, of course, loving attention at home from my husband and family was a further wonderful support. Hymn 139 from the Christian Science Hymnal, which begins "I walk with Love along the way," was a constant reminder and inspiration. Each day brought progress, and eventually I was able to discard the wheelchair and then the support of a cane as I gained strength and confidence through persistent study and practice of Christian Science.

The healing was complete over two years ago, and I have suffered no aftereffects. My deep gratitude to God is unbounded.

Doris Jane Haldorsen
El Toro, California

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