CHULA VISTA, Calif. – I first met Patty Wilkins almost a year ago. She was walking ahead of me during the “Station of the Cross” procession organized by the San Diego Ecumenical Council on Good Friday to spotlight the social justice issues prevalent in our community. I was walking slowly from one station to the other until I finally caught up with her. She greeted me with a winsome smile as she introduced herself, “Hi, I am Patty Wilkins, a volunteer of the Church of Scientology”. I introduced myself and handed her my business card. After a brief conversation we went our separate ways and bid each other “Goodbye, I hope we’ll meet again.”
True enough, we met again. She came to the office to pick up a copy of the Filipino Press. Patty is very much involved in youth programs designed to prevent alcohol and drug use. She works with youth groups on various issues affecting their lives, but the most significant program she brings to young people is the study of the UN Declaration of Human Rights.
Our relationship progressed to the point that I could be open in expressing my thoughts and feelings. At the last Martin Luther King, Jr. anniversary breakfast at the Golden Hall, Patty invited me to join their table where I met David Meyer, President of the San Diego Church of Scientology, a very amiable person.
One afternoon while Patty and I were talking over the phone, I mentioned that I was not feeling well. She offered to come and give me an “assist.” I really don’t know what an “assist” is all about. Besides, I didn’t want to impose on her time. Nonetheless, she came to see me and explained what an “assist” is all about.
She gave me a Scientology Handbook entitled Assists for Illness and Injuries based on the works of L. Ron Hubbard. I must admit that I don’t know anything about Scientology. From the handbook, I read that Scientology was founded and developed by L. Ron Hubbard. Scientology is “an applied religious philosophy which offers an exact route through which anyone can regain the truth and simplicity of his spiritual self.”
Patty gave me an “assist” and I became more curious on how “assist” can help me. I found out that “assist” is not engaging in healing. An “assist” is not a substitute for medical treatment and does not attempt to cure injuries requiring medical aid, but is complementary to it. It is a very simple procedure but the principle behind it is too complicated for me to explain at the moment. There are many types of “assist” and I’m glad that Patty opened my eyes to other possibilities of healing one’s self.
At this time of my life, I am open to learning other religious philosophies. It is very fulfilling to know that there are many ways of thinking and doing and it is through building relationships that we grow mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.