In the autumn of 2021, a sore developed on the top of my foot. 

Through study of Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy—which is based on the Bible, especially the teachings and example of Christ Jesus—I had learned how to pray scientifically. This scientific prayer involves casting out fear—something much needed in this situation, as I was very worried about whether it was an infection and would spread.

The Bible tells us, “God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind” (II Timothy 1:7). It also tells us that God is Love (see I John 4:8). I reasoned that divine Love would not send fearful thoughts; nor would it allow any adverse condition or consequences. Fear comes instead from mortal mind—what Jesus referred to as “a liar and the father of lies” (John 8:44, New International Version). I followed the instruction given in Science and Health to replace false beliefs of fear and disease with the truth that, as the spiritual creation of the one divine Mind, man can reflect only spiritual reality, which is pure, limitless, and pain-free.