Recently I was recounting to a new friend some of the lovely experiences I've had because of Christian Science, when she suddenly exclaimed, "You have so much to be grateful for!" Though I'd often given thanks for blessings before, this recognition from someone else prompted me to write the Sentinel with my gratitude.

An acquaintance introduced me to Christian Science at the time my marriage broke up. One of the first healings I had occurred shortly after I purchased my first copy of the textbook, Science and Health by Mrs. Eddy. I had wakened in the middle of the night with disturbing physical symptoms. At once I thought, "I wonder what a Christian Scientist would do in a situation like this?" And as quickly I realized that I could read Science and Health. With that I reached down beside my bed, picked up the book, and began to read. I read a very short while and, though I have no recollection of the passages, I do recall feeling filled with an assurance that all was well. I calmly went to sleep and in the morning woke perfectly well. There was never a return of the problem. Since then, many more difficulties have been healed, including cigarette smoking and an injury to my ribs. Also, relationship problems have been resolved.

One night I received news via a long-distance telephone call that my dad had passed on. In the very early morning I stood alone at my window and reached out to my heavenly Father. "I don't know how to pray about this," I said, though I yearned to know. Suddenly a warm, loving sense filled me, and I understood that nothing good can ever be taken from us. In those few moments the sense of loss and grief vanished and never returned.

Later I spent extra time with my mother. At one point she threw her arms around me, saying, "I no longer care what this new religion is"—meaning Christian Science. "You have been such a big help to me." Thus her opposition to Christian Science removed itself, and her recognition of the good in it began. This has continued.

Once I suffered with a growth on my face. When it festered I called a Christian Science practitioner for help through prayer. She reminded me about "the little foxes, that spoil the vines" (S. of Sol. 3:15) and encouraged me to lift my thoughts of distrust, envy, self-condemnation, and so on, that would attempt to rob us of our God-given joy, peace, and harmony. I endeavored to rid thought of these "spoilers." In two days the growth fell away, replaced by new, clear skin. The healing showed me proof of Christ Jesus' promise that if we pray to the Father, "thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly" (Matt. 6:6).

I feel a very deep sense of gratitude for the Christian Science practitioners who have helped me over many rough places, and for the Christian Science Reading Rooms, where I have found healing, quiet, and an understanding of God.

Improved home and work conditions, worthwhile activities, and progressive relationships all remind me that I've been mightily blessed through Science. Even the lack of confidence I had at one time has vanished, under the generous influx of divine Love.

I treasure my membership in a branch church and in The Mother Church. The recent privilege of having Christian Science class instruction has left me humbled and grateful. I am so glad this Science found its way into my life.

SYLVIA SAWITSKY
Scarborough, Ontario, Canada

I am happy to verify my daughter's testimony. I think it is very good. I am happy for Sylvia that her life has become so radiant and meaningful, since she has joined the Christian Science church. So many of us fail to see that our many blessings come from the goodness of God. I respect all worshipers, and I know that God loves us and keeps us in His care.

MARY CHEREWYK