The perfect fit

Originally appeared online in the teen series Your Healings -  December 5, 2023

BOOT PRINTS: © PANPTYS/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS
Shortly after I started college, I found myself wanting to express more of my individuality. This led me to buy an ankle-length wool coat and combat boots at a thrift store—both of which were many sizes too big. After the first rainy bike ride to class, the coat was wet and heavy, and the toes of my combat boots curled up like elf shoes. Not exactly the look I was going for.

Although I thought my intended new style fit who I was, I actually felt uncomfortable focusing so much on myself—though I wasn’t exactly sure why. But I would soon find out.

Growing up, I’d attended a Christian Science Sunday School, where I’d learned that my identity was spiritual and that I’m the reflection of God. Now, as I continued my study of Christian Science, I learned more about what that actually means. I started to value my individuality as defined not by me but by God. I learned that my individuality is distinct, loved, and complete. As this spiritual sense of identity dawned, I began to focus less on myself and instead looked for ways to love others. This led to an opportunity to work at a crisis center halfway house. I also began attending both a local Christian Science Sunday School and the Christian Science organization meetings on campus. I had a deepening desire to feel closer to my Father-Mother God. 

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

TeenConnect: Your Healings
One summer, two healings
TeenConnect: Your Healings
What I couldn’t lose
TeenConnect: Your Healings
A healing—and a way forward
TeenConnect: Your Healings
How can I get along with my sister?
TeenConnect: Your Healings
My strong foundation
TeenConnect: Your Healings
Swimming freely
TeenConnect: Your Healings
Healing on the school wilderness trip
TeenConnect: Your Healings
Prayer during a biathlon
TeenConnect: Your Healings
No more test anxiety
TeenConnect: Your Healings
Healing after a sexual assault
TeenConnect: Your Healings
How can I feel motivated?
TeenConnect: Your Healings
Trusting God with track season
TeenConnect: Your Healings
God gives us everything we need
TeenConnect: Your Healings
What’s my motive?
TeenConnect: Your Healings
When my best friend spread rumors about me
TeenConnect: Your Healings
Lessons I learned at the state championship
TeenConnect: Your Healings
When I wasn’t healed right away
TeenConnect: Your Healings
Stressed about AP tests?

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit