On page 108 of Science and Health...

William E. Schoolfield

On page 108 of Science and Health Mrs. Eddy introduces a summary of the teachings of Christian Science with these words: "When apparently near the confines of mortal existence, standing already within the shadow of the death-valley, I learned these truths in divine Science."

I too have stood "within the shadow of the death-valley"—not once but twice. The first experience occurred in 1911. According to the doctors a ruptured blood vessel on the brain resulted in partial paralysis of the face. After many months of medical treatment and a change of climate there was no appreciable improvement. When my hope was at its lowest ebb, a friend recommended Christian Science. A practitioner was called, and I shall never forget that first interview. I frankly told her that I did not believe in Christian Science, and she replied that she did not expect me to. The calm and peace of that meeting, the love-lit face of that white-haired woman, were beyond my understanding then, but they still live in memory.

In eight days after beginning to have treatments from her, I was recovered sufficiently to go on a two weeks' business trip. Then followed many lesser healings, including those of sick headaches of thirty years' standing and constipation of many years. These healings were brought about through the loving, consecrated work of a Christian Science practitioner, and have been followed by thirty years of health, joy, and peace.

Then a second testing time came. After many days of sorrow and extreme pain, the shadow of death again surrounded me. A local practitioner was asked to work for me, but without results. In sheer desperation, a long-distance call was put in for a practitioner some twenty-five hundred miles away. He was asked, "Can I use an opiate temporarily to relieve the pain?" His answer was: "I cannot make this decision for you. You must make it yourself." He was then asked if he would work for me under these circumstances, and he said he would. I was now faced with the great decision which comes to everyone sooner or later, namely, "Shall I trust God or medicine?" Divine Love was present and guided me to trust God. Within a very few minutes the healing came; all pain left, and it has never returned.

My joy and gratitude to God for our consecrated practitioners, for the church organization, for class instruction, and for our beloved Leader, Mary Baker Eddy, are unbounded.—William E. Schoolfield,
Boulder, Colorado.

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