When irregularities in one’s health arise, one must not hasten to rely upon others as the first resort. One must begin by relying upon oneself. Train the mind to trace from the effect that has manifested back toward its originating cause — through careful self-examination and thorough inward reflection. Review what one has done and how one has conducted oneself, both on the day in question and in the days that have preceded it, asking what errors or irregularities in one’s own behavior may have given rise to the present condition. Such reflection may at times prove mistaken, and at times correct — yet it forms the essential first step.
One then brings the findings of this self-examination to the physician and sets them forth clearly. The physician, possessing far greater expertise and discernment than ourselves, shall be able to determine whether our suppositions are correct or mistaken, founded or otherwise. And when the physician is furnished with accurate information, they are able to direct their attention precisely toward addressing the root cause — and recovery shall follow without undue delay.
From the book The Health of a Merit-Maker page 55
