My father was diagnosed HIV+ in 1991 - and for years we have been watching his Tcell count - myself not really understanding exactly the meaning of that. He has been on "cocktails" that have adapted to his condition. His spiritual life is mind body spirit - Christian Scientist - but he never would admit to the similarities to easten religion, as he studies the bible every day. If I were to suggest anything he considered "alternative" he would poo poo it and tell me to read his bible and everything will be ok. At one point - the "practitioners" at his church would not "treat him" with prayers because the charter of the religion is "mind over matter" and pharmaceuticals are outlawed. Some members wanted him to stop attending his church when they found out he was on medication. I was appalled that in his time of need his comunity would reject him like that. It could have been that they didn't want someone with "aids" in their church. stigmata. I'm sure this goes on in many cultures - so sad.
Anyway - it's good to be reading about the body and learn more about how these diseases are working on a cellular level. Much to absorb into my teeny tiny brain.
1 comment:
Dear Friend -
I am sorry that your father's experience was as you report. As a Christian Scientist I believe that we should always be proving that "The vital part, the heart and soul of Christian Science, is Love" (Mary Baker Eddy, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures"). While it is true that drugs and Christian Science healing treatment through prayer do not generally mix, that applies to any condition, not just AIDS. So Christian Science practitioners do, as a rule, decline giving prayerful treatment to those who are actively seeking medical help. This is out of respect for the physicians involved as much as for the practice of Christian Science - just as two physicians would not, on ethical grounds, simultaneously offer different drug treatments that might not complement each other. However, this should not normally stop the practitioner expressing love and support. Similarly, church members responding to a fellow Christian Scientist - or any other human being - with anything less than love, whatever approach to healing they choose (and whatever challenge they are struggling with!) that is not Christian, and therefore not right. To the degree that is the case in any of us that are Christian Scientists, it just suggests that there is room for improvement in our practice of Christian Science and its healing compassion. Blessings to you!
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