In 2019 I twisted my shoulder in such a way that it became inflexible, without full range of motion. I had to adjust the way I put on clothes and how I reached for things above me; in general, it affected all aspects of my active lifestyle. No one else was aware of this restriction and discomfort, but I would sometimes wince in pain as I pushed my arm too far. This condition went on for months, and at times I was afraid I would have to just live with this as my “new normal.”

As a student of Christian Science, however, I understood that God does not know me as made up of bones, muscles, and other physical characteristics, but rather as reflecting qualities of the divine nature. I leaned in to the work of spiritually discerning my innate unity with God. I thought to myself, “There is no material cause, and nothing can change the truth of how I am made and maintained by God.” 

Christian Science explains that the body manifests what’s held in thought. Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy states, “Unless muscles are self-acting at all times, they are never so,—never capable of acting contrary to mental direction” (p. 160). I knew that by grounding my thought in spiritual understanding instead of focusing on my body, I could experience the supreme control of the one Mind, God, which produces supple movement, resolves tension, and sustains freedom.