Chapter 26—Battling Against Disease
[
Historical Note.—“Our people are generally waking up to the
subject of health,” wrote Elder James White in an editorial in the
The Review and Herald, December 13, 1864.
“And they should have
publications on the subject to meet their present wants, at prices within
reach of the poorest.” He announced the early issuance of a series of
pamphlets, under the general title, “Health: or How to Live.”
The strong conviction of Elder and Mrs. White, that the reforms
to be outlined in these pamphlets were of great importance, is thus
expressed in a note in the
The Review and Herald, January 24, 1865
,
calling attention to the publication of the first of the series:
“We wish to call the attention of the brethren everywhere to these
works, prepared with especial care, on the important subject of a
reform in our manners of life, which is greatly needed, and as we view
it, will surely be accomplished in whatever people find themselves at
last prepared for translation.“
During the first five months of 1865 this series was completed.
These health pamphlets, six in number, contained articles from Mrs.
White on “Disease and Its Causes,” and on allied subjects; and many
extracts from the writings of various physicians and others interested
in health reform principles. Hygienic recipes were included, also
hints on the use of water as a remedial agency. The harmful effects
of alcohol, tobacco, tea and coffee, spices, and other stimulants and
narcotics, were further emphasized
.
The winter of 1864-65 was a time of stress and trial. While uniting
with his wife in the preparation of matter on health and temperance
[168]
for publication, Elder White found it necessary to labor untiringly in
behalf of Sabbath keepers who were being drafted for service in the
army. This work was attended with perplexity and anxiety, and drew
heavily on his sympathies, besides overtaxing his physical strength.
The administrative cares in the session of the General Conference held
in May, 1865, added to his weariness
.
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