Inspiring examples: Helen Keller


One of the most inspiring things we can do is study the lives of women and men who have dealt with and overcome challenges in their lives, showing true nobility and greatness of soul. One of those whom I appreciate is Helen Keller, born in Alabama on June 27, 1880 - 141 years ago today.
An illness at 19 months, probably scarlet fever or meningitis, left Helen blind and deaf. I can't imagine living my entire life in darkness and silence, with only the faintest childhood memories of sight and sound. The story of how Helen learned to communicate through the efforts of Anne Sullivan, starting at age 7, is well known. Keller went on to become the first blind and deaf person to earn a bachelor of arts degree (cum laude) from Radcliffe College, the female counterpart of the then all-male Harvard University. She later traveled widely and become a prolific author and speaker, and an advocate for the handicapped. She died in 1968, age 87 years.
The attached complitation of some of her insights is inspiring to me. Who could someone who can't see have such a clear vision of life, relationships, and priorities?
I #GiveThanks for my life of comparative ease, and for the powerful inspiration of those who have carried heavy burdens and yet triumphed over adversity to find happiness and success.



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