On a Saturday afternoon in late March 2003, a tall tree exceeding twelve inches in diameter toppled in my backyard, striking me on the left topside of my head and on the left side of my body. I lost consciousness for a brief period.

I had been doing metaphysical work that day and had been particularly drawn to the statement, ‘If the disciple is advancing spiritually, he is striving to enter in. He constantly turns away from material sense, and looks towards the imperishable things of Spirit’ (Science and Health, page 21). Upon regaining consciousness, I was at first confused and immediately experienced pain when I attempted to get up from the ground. Then I became aware of the fallen tree next to me. The verse from Science and Health was quickly recalled and helped me to turn from the mental picture of accident. This kept me from experiencing extreme fear.

Nevertheless, still lying on the ground, I became concerned about the possibility of broken and dislocated bones. The thought came that perhaps I should not move. However, the fact that I was alone with no help in sight made me realize that I needed to get up to my house at the top of a small hill.

An angel message reminded me that function was not dependent on body or physical organs. Movement therefore was dependent on Mind, not on organs of the body that could be injured. I suddenly was able to get to my feet, although with limited mobility.

I noticed blood on my clothes, which was from a gash on my head where the tree had struck, but bleeding had already stopped.

Upon entering the house, I called to my wife, who immediately called a Christian Science practitioner. My wife drove me to Chestnut Hill Benevolent Association where I received very loving and professional care, with three nurses in attendance, who cleansed and bandaged the wound without causing any pain or discomfort. The communication from the nurses was very supportive and uplifting. Also, close communication was maintained between the nurses and the practitioner.

I returned home in a few hours. A Christian Science nurse from the BA visited me in my home to change the bandage. She also provided a sling to support my left arm, aids to assist in mobility, and practical advice on ways to perform necessary tasks more easily.

By the beginning of the second week, I was able to take a train to work, being taken to the station by car, and carry on all my regular activities. From the beginning, I was in daily contact with the practitioner, who shared many useful insights. By the end of the second week, I could use my left arm sufficiently to shower without assistance. The nurse returned to my home and removed the bandages. Where a severe gash had appeared, there was only a scratch. Today, there is no evidence of even a scratch.

In less than two months after the incident, I was playing tennis, raking leaves, and accomplishing all normal tasks, with only occasional slight discomfort. Shortly thereafter, I had no discomfort and was splitting firewood.

This healing has been a significant waymark in my growth Spiritward. It has given me a much greater appreciation for the role of Christian Science nursing and the BA in support of Christian Science healing.