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Medical Ministry
I make myself a criterion for no one else. There are things that I
cannot eat without suffering great distress. I try to learn that which
is best for me, and then, saying nothing to anyone, I partake of the
things that I can eat, which often are simply two or three varieties
that will not create a disturbance in the stomach.
Let us remember that we have had a long time to become ac-
customed to the health-reform diet. We cannot expect anything else
than that in our sanitariums it will be necessary to furnish dishes
prepared somewhat differently from those prepared for our own use;
for we have learned to relish plain food. It is necessary to plan more
liberally for a medical institution than for a private family. Many
things must be taken into consideration, and concessions must be
made to meet the peculiar needs of the many classes of patients
coming to our sanitariums. A straitjacket is not to be put on the
appetite suddenly. When you become acquainted with these people,
and understand their true condition, prescriptions can be given to
meet the individual requirements.—
Letter 45, 1903
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Lectures to be Given
In dealing with the patients in our sanitariums, we must reason
from cause to effect. We must remember that the habits and practices
of a lifetime cannot be changed in a moment. With an intelligent
cook, and an abundant supply of wholesome food, reforms can be
brought about that will work well, but it may take time to bring them
about. A strenuous effort should not be made unless it is actually
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demanded. We must remember that food which would be appetizing
to a health reformer might be very insipid to those who have been
accustomed to highly seasoned food.
Lectures should be given explaining why reforms in diet are
essential, and showing that the use of highly seasoned food causes
inflammation of the delicate lining of the digestive organs. Let it
be shown why we as a people have changed our habits of eating
and drinking. Show why we discard tobacco and all intoxicating
liquor. Lay down the principles of health reform clearly and plainly,
and with this, let there be placed on the table an abundance of
wholesome food, tastefully prepared; and the Lord will help you
to make impressive the urgency of reform, and will lead them to