My wife and I had set aside funds for our children's college education. Much of this provision was in a form that we considered a safe investment. Then, over time, I found that my contentment became more dependent on our bank account than on my spiritual growth. I neglected daily study and prayer in Christian Science, and I displayed less patience toward my family than toward friends and business acquaintances. Ultimately, the investment was lost through insider stock manipulations and bankruptcy.

I grew more and more concerned with lack until one day at the office I collapsed, unconscious, and was rushed in an ambulance to the hospital.

I had regained consciousness in the ambulance—in time to tell the admitting physician that I was a Christian Scientist and would rely completely on Christian Science for healing. The incident caused me to realize how important it was for me to take charge of my thinking and to maintain my understanding of God as the loving Mind of all. This spiritual awakening and the prayers of the Christian Science practitioner who was asked to pray for me were effective, and I was promptly healed.

At my employer's insistence, and in accordance with an understood company requirement, I had to receive a thorough physical examination. I felt fine and was not fearful about what the test results might show, although I was aware of the hospital's concerns.

I recall gratefully the practitioner's prayers for me as well as the prayers of my family. The practitioner referred me to the Bible and to many simple statements of provable truth in the Christian Science textbook, Science and Health by Mrs. Eddy. Among these references were two particularly helpful passages (pp. 392, 393): "Stand porter at the door of thought. Admitting only such conclusions as you wish realized in bodily results, you will control yourself harmoniously" and "Rise in the strength of Spirit to resist all that is unlike good." I endeavored to follow these directives.

After the examination the doctor reported that all was well and acknowledged his respect for Christian Science.

Ten years of good health have passed since this healing with no recurrence of the trouble. Also, funds for our children's college tuitions were recovered. But more important to me is my improved love for my family and my growing understanding of God's love for everyone. This greater sense of Love has outshone physical and financial healing.

There have been many other opportunities to apply Christian Science for healing in our family. The healings we have had include those of bursitis, flu, and headache. Employment and home have been established, relationships have improved, and the effects of accidents have been overcome. I am most grateful for the truth of Christian Science, which is available to all mankind.

Richard L. Wagner
Carmel, California