Article February 23, 2004 Issue

Never beyond GOD'S HELP

After being shot, a man finds the courage to persevere in prayer.

By Andy Gaudette

I Had Just Picked Up My Daughter Megan at the airport in San Juan, Puerto Rico. She was coming to spend a week with us before returning to college in the United States. As we drove home, I heard what sounded like two gunshots. We often heard gunshots in Puerto Rico, so I assumed they were "out there somewhere." Then I felt pain in my leg and realized blood was everywhere. I told Megan that I thought I'd been shot. She said, "So have I."

I pulled the car over. Megan was covered in blood and crying. A single bullet that we later found out was from an AK-47 had passed through the car, injuring both of us. My immediate response was to focus my thoughts on God. From all I'd learned in my study of Christian Science, I knew that no human invention—not even a bullet—could harm our identity as spiritual beings. I knew there was protection in understanding that God made us in His image (see Gen. 1:27). But for a moment I was afraid I might bleed to death. Then, as I looked at my daughter, I knew I still had much to give to the world. From that moment forward I was calm. I talked to Megan about how even in this circumstance we were in God's care and not to worry.

Because my wound required both hands and all of my strength to stop the bleeding, I knew I needed some practical care. Megan had one hand free, and she used my cell phone to call for emergency help. Although police cars were whizzing past, no one was stopping. Finally, a citizen stopped and helped us flag down a police car. A couple of ambulance rides later, Megan and I were in the local San Juan government hospital.